The liver is the largest internal organ in the human body and the second-largest overall, after the skin. At any given time, it holds about one pint—roughly 13%—of the body’s blood supply.
World Liver Day, observed annually on April 19, aims to raise awareness about liver health, common liver diseases, preventive measures, and the importance of early detection.
The theme for 2025 is "Food is Medicine", emphasizing the critical role of balanced nutrition and whole foods in maintaining optimal liver health.
In a conversation with Dr. Theresa Lily Thomas, BDS of MedBound Times, Dr. Syed Ahmed, MD (Internal Medicine) PGIMER, Chandigarh, DM (Gastroenterology), AIIMS, New Delhi, India—debunks several myths commonly associated with liver health.
He is currently a Consultant Hepatologist and Gastroenterologist at Yatharth Hospital, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India.
"The liver is the powerhouse that fuels your metabolism, filters your blood, and keeps your body in balance," says Dr. Ahmed.
Dr. Ahmed addresses some popular misconceptions fueled by social media trends on platforms like Instagram and YouTube:
Fact: There’s no scientific basis for detox drinks “cleansing” the liver. However, certain pharmacologically proven agents like Vitamin E and N-Acetylcysteine may offer hepatoprotective benefits in specific conditions such as drug-induced hepatitis or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
Fact: Supplements and herbal medicines should not be consumed unless proven beneficial in clinical trials. Some may even cause harm to the liver.
Fact: It’s not just fat. Consuming more calories than needed—combined with a sedentary lifestyle—can lead to fatty liver as a consequence of obesity.
Fact: Liver diseases are not exclusive to alcoholics. In fact, non-alcoholic liver diseases are now on the rise and becoming increasingly common.
Fact: While maintaining a healthy weight supports liver health, even lean individuals can develop fatty liver due to genetic predisposition. This condition is known as Lean NASH (Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis).
Fact: No amount of alcohol is completely safe for the liver. Even small quantities can contribute to liver damage over time.
In a similar conversation Dr. Theresa Lily Thomas, BDS of MedBound Times connected with Dr. Hozefa Hunderawala, Consultant Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist, at Saifee Hospital for his insights. He is also a UK board certified hepatologist. He gave a few tips to manage liver health:
"When discussing liver health, it’s important to recognize that the liver is a vital organ in our body, performing approximately 500 functions. These functions include the metabolism of fats, carbohydrates, and vitamins. Therefore, maintaining liver health is essential.
Several factors can negatively impact the liver, including alcohol and drugs, hepatitis (especially viral hepatitis), diabetes, hypertension, and obesity. So, how can we keep our liver healthy?
Here are some tips for maintaining liver health:
1. Avoid Alcohol: Alcohol is one of the leading causes of liver disease worldwide.
2. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Aim for an optimal weight and engage in regular exercise.
3. Control Blood Sugar and Blood Pressure: If you have diabetes or hypertension, it’s crucial to keep your blood sugar and blood pressure levels under control.
4. Be Cautious with Over-the-Counter Medications: Avoid taking over-the-counter drugs, such as antibiotics and painkillers, like paracetamol, without a prescription, as unnecessary use can harm the liver.
5. Prevent Viral Hepatitis: Vaccines are available for hepatitis A and B, so make sure to get vaccinated to protect yourself from these viruses. For other types of hepatitis, practice safe sex and avoid sharing personal items, such as razors, combs, and towels.
6. Optimal Nutrition: Follow a protein-rich diet while reducing carbohydrates and fats in your meals.
Protect your liver by debunking myths and relying on evidence-based guidance. This World Liver Day, celebrate by giving your liver the care it truly deserves.
MSM
