Liver Health
It must be noted that this is another health condition that ranks as the number one diagnosis among Thais. Ticy City believes it should not be overlooked, even though it often presents no symptoms. However, this condition could be the starting point for more severe diseases. The condition in question is Fatty Liver Disease, a silent threat leading to liver cancer.
Fatty Liver Disease involves the excessive accumulation of fat in the liver, typically around 5–10%, often in the form of triglycerides. Despite being symptomless, it can be a silent threat, leading to other diseases, including liver cancer. Therefore, taking care of liver health is essential.
The liver is akin to the second heart of the body, central to bodily functions and constantly working hard. Poor liver health inevitably leads to poor overall health.
Recent studies by medical and health organizations reveal concerning changes in the health indices of Thai people. Data from Chulalongkorn Hospital, Thai Red Cross Society, indicates that “25–30% of the Thai population, or about one-third, unknowingly suffer from Fatty Liver Disease, leading to liver diseases.” This aligns with statistics from the Thai Health Promotion Foundation, which found that “liver cancer is now the most common cancer in Thailand, with a high mortality rate of 16,000 deaths per year.” Many of these patients had lifestyle habits that neglected liver health, including:
- Consuming high-fat foods
- Eating sugary foods and drinks
- Overeating leads to obesity.
- Drinking alcohol
- Smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke
Research from the Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, concluded that “men are 2–5 times more likely than women to develop liver cancer due to a lack of discipline in health care.”
Dr. Natthida Sribuathong, a specialist in gastrointestinal and liver diseases, shared insights into liver health and the stages of liver disease that many are unaware of. “Liver diseases are increasingly common. Many patients are unaware of their condition or realize it too late when their health has deteriorated significantly. A healthy liver is smooth, pink, and scar-free. When fat accumulates in liver cells, it signifies Fatty Liver Disease. Without proper care or treatment, this can lead to inflammation and fibrosis, resulting in permanent liver damage, known as hepatitis. Severe cases may lead to cirrhosis, where the liver becomes bumpy and filled with nodules due to the destruction of liver cells. The most severe condition is liver cancer, where abnormal cell growth makes treatment challenging. Timely liver care and regular health check-ups, at least once a year, are crucial.”
Additionally, Ticy City found information from Nutrilite by Amway on how to maintain liver health and avoid liver diseases:
- Choose nutritious foods and avoid processed and artificial foods.
- Exercise regularly.
- Avoid alcohol.
- Do not self-medicate or use unreliable supplements.
- Avoid high-fat and sugary foods and overeating.
- Practice safe sex and avoid sharing needles or sharp objects to prevent hepatitis B and C.
- Consume liver-supporting foods or supplements like broccoli extract, licorice extract, and grape seed extract, which help detoxify, reduce inflammation, and protect liver cells. Lecithin, found in egg yolks, beans, soybeans, milk, sunflower seeds, liver, meat, and brewer’s yeast, can lower cholesterol and blood pressure and reduce liver inflammation from Fatty Liver Disease.
While these tips may seem simple, they are often overlooked. Maintaining good health requires discipline in daily activities, regular exercise, and a balanced diet, complemented by quality vitamins or supplements. This approach helps keep the body strong and reduces the risk of Fatty Liver Disease and related liver issues.
Source: Nutrilite by Amway Image: iStockphoto
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