Your struggle to get rid of those extra pounds or feel tired and low on energy could be a sign that you have an overworked liver. Here are 7 liver-damaging mistakes to watch out for:
1. Not drinking enough water — The golden rule is to drink at least 8 full glasses of water every day. According to Dr Michele Neil-Sherwood from the Functional Medical Institute, “Dehydration can have a direct effect on our liver’s ability to properly detoxify our body.” When your liver can’t clear those toxins, the risk of illness increases.
2. Eating heavy meals or high glycemic foods before bed — Eating heavy meals before bed is a guaranteed way to make your liver work overtime. High glycemic foods are the worst culprits here. This includes foods like breads, white rice, sweets, and even “healthy” fruits like watermelon and pineapple. Experts recommend avoiding these liver-taxing foods before bed. If you’re craving a snack, go for fresh carrots which help cleanse your liver.
3. Eating too many trans fats — Trans fats are dangerous preservatives commonly found in prepackaged foods. They often show up as “hydrogenated oils” in the ingredient list. Consuming too many trans fats increases weight gain, packing more fat onto your liver and belly.
4. Eating too much sugar — Refined sugar and high-fructose corn syrup wreak havoc on your liver. Some studies suggest it can damage your liver just as much as alcohol, without being overweight. Fructose is converted to fat in the body, which increases your risk of developing a fatty liver.
5. Not getting enough exercise — Getting a proper amount of exercise is important, even if you’re not overweight. Not only does exercise help you work up a good sweat, but it improves liver detoxification too. Even several brisk walks every week can pay huge benefits.
6. Consuming too much vitamin A — Out of this entire list, this one might surprise you the most! Vitamin A delivers many great benefits at normal doses, such as protecting your eyes and supporting a healthy immune system. But too much vitamin A is toxic to your liver. How much is too much? Generally, doses over 40,000 IU daily. Most people won’t have to worry about going overboard with vitamin A. However, if you take multiple vitamins and supplements that contain vitamin A, pay close attention to the total amount you’re consuming.
7. Taking the wrong herbal supplements — Certain herbal extracts such as kava can be harmful to your liver. That’s why taking the right nutrients is crucial for rejuvenating your liver and restoring a healthy metabolism.
