Alcohol can damage your liver. But can this damage be repaired? The good news is that the damage can sometimes be reversed. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Sudeep Khanna, main gastroenterology consultant in Indraprastha Apollo hospitals, said that was particularly true if damage is not yet too bad. Read also | The doctor says that these everyday foods can silently damage your liver: cookies, from cereal soda
“If you assume the first liver damage and stop drinking alcohol, your liver can cure a lot. But if the damage is serious, it may not improve. The best way to protect your liver is not to Drink alcohol at all. Taking care of your body with good food, exercise and healthy habits will give your liver the best chances of staying strong, ”he said.
How does alcohol hurt the liver?
The amount of alcohol considered safe varies depending on several factors, including age, sex, weight and overall health. Dr. Khanna says: “For men, it is 60 to 80 grams per day for 5 years, and for women, it is 20 to 40 grams per day for the same duration. But don’t forget that there is nothing dose of sure alcohol. ”
According to him, drinking a lot of alcohol over time can cause these problems:
⦿ Foie gras: The fat accumulates in the liver cells.
⦿ Alcoholic hepatitis: The liver becomes inflamed (swollen and painful).
⦿ Cirrhosis: The liver is marked and hard, which is serious and often permanent.
Can the liver cure?
Speaking of foie gras and light inflammation, Dr. Khanna says: “Yes! If you stop drinking alcohol, your liver can start to heal. This can happen in a few weeks or months. ” What about cirrhosis? “These damage generally cannot be completely fixed. But alcohol stops can always help prevent it from getting worse, “he adds.
What can you do to repair liver damage?
Repairing liver damage requires a complete approach incorporating food changes, Lifestyle changesand regular exercise. Here are some tips that Dr. Khanna shared to help you start:
⦿ Stop drinking alcohol: this is the most important step. Your liver needs a break in alcohol to heal.
⦿ Eat healthy foods: choose fruits and vegetables such as apples, berries, spinach and carrots. Eat whole grains like brown rice and oats. Avoid fried, fatty and processed foods. Use healthy oils such as olive oil.
⦿ Exercise regularly: Try to move your body every day. Walk, cycling or light jogging for 30 minutes is great. Exercise helps your liver by reducing fat.
⦿ Keep healthy weight: losing weight can help your liver work better if you are overweight.
Home remedies for liver health work?
Dr. Khanna suggests that you avoid self-medication with supplements or herbs without speaking to a doctor. He adds: “Thistle is popular but has not been proven to help liver damage caused by alcohol. »»
He also says: “Remember that if you have symptoms such as skin yellowing (jaundice), stomach pain or swelling, consult a doctor immediately. Early treatment can save your liver and life. ”
Note to readers: This article is for information purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always find your doctor’s opinion with questions about a medical condition.