9 things about the liver a Harvard doctor wants everyone to know

The liver is the largest internal organ in the human body, acting as a filter that processes blood and breaks down nutrients, toxins, and waste products. It also plays a vital role in metabolism, digestion, and immune function. Despite its crucial role, its health is often overlooked. Dr. Saurabh Sethi, a California-based gastroenterologist trained at Harvard and Stanford, has shared 9 critical insights about the liver that he wants everyone to understand to keep this powerhouse organ healthy. The liver has a unique ability to regrow damaged cells. However, Dr. Sethi warns that it is important to understand the organ is ‘not invincible’. “It can regrow damaged cells, but chronic injury leads to scarring that can't be reversed,” he said in a post shared on Instagram. Chronic injury can be caused by alcohol, poor diet, or disease, which can lead to irreversible scarring, known as cirrhosis.

Coffee is more than an indulgence

Good news for coffee lovers. Your indulgence brings more than joy. It's a liver medicine. Drinking three or more cups of coffee daily is linked to a 40% lower risk of cirrhosis and liver cancer, according to studies. Dr. Sethi has advised skipping the sugar and cream to maximize benefits. “However, be careful, individual sensitivity to caffeine varies and may cause insomnia, palpitations, or anxiety,” he cautioned.

Even non-drinkers can get fatty liver

Fatty liver affects 1 in 3 adults, even non-drinkers, the liver doctor said. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) affects, even those who abstain from alcohol. Often symptomless until significant damage occurs, NAFLD is on the rise due to poor diets and sedentary lifestyles. Regular checkups can catch it early.

Liver processes everything you swallow, including meds

The liver processes everything you ingest, including medications. Dr. Sethi warned that over-the-counter painkillers like acetaminophen can cause severe liver damage in high doses. “Always confirm the correct dosage with your doctor,” he said.

Sleep quality directly affects the liver repair

Poor sleep affects the liver’s ability to metabolize nutrients and clear toxins. Dr. Sethi has recommended getting at least seven to 9 hours of quality sleep every night to support the liver’s repair processes and overall function. Dr. Sethi emphasized that the liver operates on a circadian rhythm. Hence, eating late at night can disrupt its natural detox cycle. This seemingly harmless habit can lead to fat accumulation in the liver.

You are surrounded by hidden liver toxins

Yes, that’s right. Common household products like cleaning agents, pesticides, and even some cosmetics contain toxins that burden the liver. “Opt for natural alternatives,” he suggested. Some supplements you take, hoping to improve your health, can in fact harm your liver. Marketed as health boosters, some herbal supplements and high-dose vitamins can cause inflammation or damage the liver. Dr. Sethi has emphasized the importance of consulting a physician before starting any supplement regimen to ensure safety.

Hydration is crucial

Drinking adequate water throughout the day is the best thing you can do for your liver. This will help the liver to flush out toxins efficiently. “Aim for 2-3 liters daily,” the liver doctor suggested.