Top liver specialist shares 5 important facts about liver health

Liver diseases are skyrocketing, and often, people get diagnosed in later stages, where reversal becomes tricky. The liver is a vital organ responsible for crucial functions in the body, including metabolism, immunity, digestion, detoxification, and vitamin storage, among others. Dr. Saurabh Sethi, a board-certified gastroenterologist based in California, has now shared some important facts about liver health. Take a look.

Liver regenerates

The liver has a remarkable ability to regenerate. Interestingly, it's the only internal organ capable of this process. But that doesn’t mean you take the liver for granted. Dr. Sethi emphasizes that though it can regenerate damaged cells, the liver is not invincible. “Chronic injury leads to scarring that can't be reversed,” he warns. For instance, in the early stages of fatty liver diseases, both alcoholic fatty liver disease and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease are reversible. But if it progresses to cirrhosis, it cannot be reversed.


Coffee is more than a pick-me-up

Your morning cup of coffee could be doing more than waking you up. Dr. Sethi referred to coffee as ‘liver medicine’. Yes, that’s right, coffee is linked to improved liver function. According to multiple studies, drinking coffee, particularly two to three cups a day, may be associated with a lower risk of heart disease and dangerous heart rhythms, and may be associated with living longer. “3+ cups daily linked to 40% lower risk of cirrhosis and liver cancer,” Dr Sethi said. However, if you want these benefits, it is important to skip the sugar and cream and have plain coffee. Though coffee has many health benefits, it may not be for everyone. “However, be careful, individual sensitivity to caffeine varies and may cause insomnia, palpitations, or anxiety,” the liver doctor warns.

Fatty liver affects 1 in 3 adults, even non-drinkers

Liver diseases are on the rise. Though the incidences are increasing day by day, most people think it is linked to consuming alcohol. But guess what? Liver disease is not exclusive to heavy drinkers. There is a condition called nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which occurs when fat builds up in the liver, affecting about one in three adults globally. This condition is often tied to lifestyle factors, including diet. “Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is skyrocketing and often silent until serious damage,” the doctor adds.

Liver processes everything you swallow, including meds

Dr. Sethi has explained how the liver processes everything you consume, including medications. Which is why it is important to take medications only according to your doctor’s advice. “Over-the-counter painkillers like acetaminophen in high doses can cause deadly liver damage. Always confirm the correct dosage with your doctor,” the doctor says.



Sleep is crucial

If you thought sleep had nothing to do with liver health, you are mistaken. Dr. Sethi shares that sleep quality directly affects liver repair. Poor sleep disrupts metabolism and the body’s natural toxin-clearing processes. He advises getting at least 7-9 hours of sleep consistently.