Diet and Lifestyle
Eat more fiber
Fiber helps your liver work at an optimal level. Add fruits, vegetables, whole grain breads, rice and cereals to get to your daily fiber goal.
Avoid alcohol
The liver breaks down alcohol so that it can be removed from the body. This strains the organ and makes it harder to remove scar tissue.
Drink lots of fluids, especially water
Water helps your liver remove toxins from the body. Drinking water after waking, before every meal, and before going to sleep helps this process.
Limit foods high in fat, sugar and salt.
The digestion of salty, saturated foods force the liver to work harder and lower its ability to store glucose, which can lead to fatty liver disease.
Exercise regularly every day
Exercise has many positive impacts on the liver and your overall health. Just 30 minutes a day can help reduce liver fat and improve blood flow.
Avoid smoking
Smoking can inflame the liver and worsens the effects of other liver-damaging factors like alcohol and fatty foods.
Medication
Follow a consistent schedule
Make sure to take your medication at the same time everyday or as directed for best results. It may help to have a pill organizer or a medication tracking card.
Follow dosage recommendations
Never exceed the maximum recommended dosage of a medication.
Know your medications
Keep a list of every medication you use, including the amount you take and time of day you take it. Be sure to keep this list up-to-date and bring it with you whenever you see your doctor or pharmacist.
Be careful of your acetaminophen intake
Know if your medicines contain acetaminophen. Never take two medicines with acetaminophen at the same time. Taking too much acetaminophen can lead to liver damage.
Additional Recommendations by Condition
What’s next?
Start getting regular check-ups
If you and your care team are concerned about your risk for liver cancer, consistent surveillance every 6 months is recommended.
Know your symptoms
Damage to your liver accumluates over time across multiple stages, affecting your health in many ways. Learn about the early signs and symptoms of liver disease.
