Combat Rising Liver Diseases: Experts Recommend Essential Lifestyle Changes for Better Health

Hyderabad: Your liver might be in trouble, and you could be unaware until it’s too late. As World Liver Day approaches, doctors are sounding the alarm about a hidden crisis: liver diseases, largely driven by lifestyle choices and diet, are affecting younger people in India more than ever.

“One in five people in India is experiencing liver disease,” says Dr. Anand V. Kulkarni, a senior consultant at AIG Hospitals. The issue is worsening, fueled by easy access to unhealthy foods, rising rates of obesity, increased screen time, and alcohol consumption becoming more casual.

Viral hepatitis, particularly types A, B, and E, is prevalent in India. In fact, the Asia-Pacific region carries a significant portion of the global hepatitis burden. This has led to a troubling rise in liver cancer, often detected too late for effective treatment.

The liver can endure a lot before showing symptoms. “It can take years of damage before you feel anything,” Dr. Kulkarni explains. Many people overlook subtle warning signs like vague abdominal pain, skin changes, or swelling in the legs. Fatty liver disease, a buildup of fat in the liver, has become a major cause of serious liver issues, including cirrhosis and cancer.

Cirrhosis, the hardening of the liver, is increasingly seen in younger people—especially due to excessive drinking. A study from AIG Hospitals revealed a concerning trend: many patients aged 35 to 45 now arrive with alcohol-related liver diseases and often face grim outcomes.

Dr. G. Srinivas Reddy, a consultant hepatologist, is particularly worried about non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). This condition is becoming the most common liver issue in medical practice. NAFLD can escalate from simple fat accumulation to inflammation, and finally to cirrhosis. What’s alarming is that it often develops without noticeable symptoms.

In India, about 35% of people have NAFLD, and for those with diabetes, the rate climbs to 88%. Even individuals with a normal weight can suffer from a type of NAFLD known as lean NASH, especially if they have certain genetic traits.

The good news? Damage from liver disease can often be reversed. “Lifestyle changes are crucial,” Dr. Reddy advises. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables—packed with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties—can significantly reduce liver inflammation. Foods like ginger and garlic support liver health, while fiber-rich seeds like chia and flax help with weight management and gut health, reducing inflammation.

Dr. Reddy also warns against sugary drinks, processed meats, and excessive alcohol. “These foods burden the liver with unhealthy fats and carbs, leading to more inflammation,” he says. Even fruits like mangoes, often criticized for their sugar, can be beneficial when eaten in moderation.

Dr. Kulkarni stresses the importance of a balanced diet, regular exercise, and early screening for liver health. “Aim for 8,000 to 10,000 steps daily, drink plenty of water, and even enjoy a few cups of black coffee, as they protect the liver,” he suggests. Teaching children healthy habits early is vital since many liver issues start in childhood.

Vaccination against hepatitis B, careful use of pain medications, and access to clean water are equally important in combating viral hepatitis. “The liver quietly manages everything we consume but usually stays silent until serious damage occurs,” Dr. Kulkarni emphasizes. “It can forgive a lot—but eventually, it can’t. So, treat it well: eat smart, stay active, and let food work for you, not against you.”



Source link

World Liver Day, liver diseases