The liver is an organ that deserves a special mention since, in addition to transforming food into energy, eliminating alcohol and toxins from the blood, it is also the first to endure the anger you do when something goes wrong. However, some foods pose a great danger to him and to your health.
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Red meat.
Although its flavor is unmatched, consuming this food too frequently can lead to future problems, for example, in that your liver no longer processes proteins in the best way, as well as any food in general.
In addition to being high in protein, red meats also have high levels of fat, which means an accumulation of fatty acids and triglycerides in your liver, something negative for your health in the long run. “Even the leanest cuts of meat are high in fat.”
Alcohol.
Without a doubt one of the best-known products that kill the liver. In fact, consuming alcohol can lead to inflammation in said organ that, if not treated in time, can heal and eventually cause cirrhosis.
The fact that you have a very resistant liver and capable of regeneration does not mean that it is invincible, since every time it filters the alcohol that you consume some of its cells die, which in the long run hinders its ability to reestablish itself.
Fast food.
Are you a big lover of hamburgers or pizza? Perhaps you should be more selective after reading this, as these foods contain a high mix of sodium and fat, which can accumulate in the liver and thus cause liver damage.
A study was in charge of changing the healthy habits of a group of 18 adult volunteers, who left exercise and exemplary eating for sedentary lifestyle and junk food.
After four weeks of follow-up, almost a quarter of the volunteers were found to have gained 14 pounds (6.5 kilos) on average. In addition, it was recorded that the level of the liver enzyme known as alanine aminotransferase increased constantly, which is not good for the liver.
Refreshments.
Refreshing they have nothing, because due to their high sugar content they generate the sensation of more thirst. According to director of the Liver Unit, people who drink more than a quarter of a liter of these sweetened beverages a day can develop fatty liver disease.
Protein.
Carrying out a diet very high with these nutrients will increase the risk of presenting poor liver function, this is because it will have to eliminate the toxins that arise when the protein is digested.
Salt.
Although it is essential for the body, because thanks to sodium, blood pressure can be maintained and there is a balance of fluids in the body, consuming too much can cause the liver to stop producing proteins such as albumin and consequently, the pressure to rise in the blood vessels of this organ.
The recommended daily amount of sodium is 1,500 mg. However, if you are over 50 years of age, consumption should be reduced to 1,300 mg and 1,200 when you are over 70 years of age.
Medicines.
They were made to heal a problem in your body and can make you feel better, if they are taken incorrectly, for example in self-medication or when mixed with alcohol, your liver can also suffer damage. Faced with this, there is nothing better than receiving medical advice.
Cigar.
Whistle after whistle, not only your lung is being consumed, but also your liver, this is because the chemical substances present in this product are capable of causing irreversible damage to the cells of the organ by affecting the oxidative stress process.
Supplements.
Some research suggests that dietary or nutritional supplements can increase the production of certain liver enzymes when taken in excessive amounts.
Pesticides.
Did you know that exposing yourself to this chemical through adulterated fruits, vegetables, and foods can also damage the liver? Hence the importance of washing, disinfecting these foods and, if possible, peeling them.
While some foods simply “destroy” your liver, others will help keep it healthy. For example, fruits that are high in antioxidants such as prunes, blueberries, strawberries, oranges, apples, and melons have been found to help scavenge free radicals allowing this organ to work better.
You can do a lot to improve your health in general and that of the liver, from practicing some sport or daily exercise, maintaining a balanced diet and low in salt, avoiding excess substances that are harmful to health such as tobacco, alcohol, over-the-counter medications, etc.