Liver cirrhosis: Take care of your liver, manage cirrhosis with these lifestyle changes

Liver cirrhosis occurs when normal liver tissue is replaced by scar tissue, impairing its ability to function. Early detection, consistent monitoring, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are key to managing this condition effectively (Image: Canva)

Feeling tired all the time might just seem like everyday fatigue, but sometimes it’s more than that. If you’re also losing your appetite or noticing swelling in your legs or abdomen, these could be signs of something more serious, like your liver trying to tell you it needs attention

The liver, often called your body's natural detox powerhouse, works tirelessly to keep you healthy. But when it starts to struggle, conditions like cirrhosis can take a toll, urging you to reevaluate your lifestyle, says Dr Radhika Venugopal, Consultant in Hepatology, Liver Disease & Transplantation at Rela Hospital, Chennai. “Liver cirrhosis occurs when normal liver tissue is replaced by scar tissue, impairing its ability to function. Early detection, consistent monitoring, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are key to managing this condition effectively,” she adds.

Also read | Fatigue, loss of appetite, yellowing of skin could be symptoms of liver disease 

Dr Venugopal suggests tips on how to keep your liver healthy and manage cirrhosis naturally while staying proactive about your well-being:

• Eat a healthy diet: A balanced diet is the foundation of liver health. Make sure your meals are packed with fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains while cutting out processed and junk foods. Sodium is another key factor to watch. Too much salt can worsen cirrhosis symptoms. Aim for less than 2,000 mg of sodium daily. Protein intake should be moderate, ideally between 1.2 to 1.5 gm per kg of your body weight, to avoid overburdening your liver. Additionally, eating small, frequent meals throughout the day can help stabilise your energy levels.

• Go for regular medical check-ups: Routine check-ups are essential for anyone managing cirrhosis. Regular liver function tests can help you monitor your health and catch any issues early. Imaging tests like ultrasounds and elastography are also critical in assessing liver health and screening for complications, including early signs of liver cancer. By staying consistent with medical evaluations, you’ll be better equipped to manage your condition and prevent further damage.

• Take medications as prescribed: Medications prescribed for cirrhosis play a crucial role in protecting your liver. Antiviral drugs help control hepatitis B or C, which are common causes of liver damage. Diuretics and beta-blockers are often used to manage fluid retention and reduce the risk of bleeding. Additionally, your doctor may recommend antioxidants or liver-supportive supplements to boost your liver’s health. It’s essential to take these medications exactly as prescribed and discuss any side effects with your doctor.

• Avoid liver toxins: Protecting your liver means avoiding substances that can harm it further. Certain medications, like NSAIDs and large doses of acetaminophen, can worsen liver damage, so use them only under medical supervision. Herbal supplements should also be approached with caution and discussed with your doctor before use. Environmental toxins, including cigarette smoke and exposure to harmful chemicals like pesticides, should be avoided. Most importantly, say no to alcohol, even small amounts over time can aggravate liver damage and worsen cirrhosis.

• Adopt healthy lifestyle habits: Adopting healthy habits can significantly impact your liver health. Regular exercise, such as 150 minutes of moderate physical activity weekly, helps improve blood circulation and maintain a healthy weight, which is crucial for preventing fatty liver disease. Quitting smoking is equally important, as it worsens liver disease and increases the risk of liver cancer. Additionally, getting vaccinated against hepatitis A and B can protect your liver from further damage caused by infections.