9 things about the liver a Harvard doctor wants everyone to know
The liver is the largest internal organ in the human body, acting as a filter that processes blood and breaks down nutrients, toxins, and waste products. It also plays a vital role in metabolism, digestion, and immune function.
Despite its crucial role, its health is often overlooked. Dr. Saurabh Sethi, a California-based gastroenterologist trained at Harvard and Stanford, has shared 9 critical insights about the liver that he wants everyone to understand to keep this powerhouse organ healthy.
Liver regenerates
The liver has a unique ability to regrow damaged cells. However, Dr. Sethi warns that it is important to understand the organ is 'not invincible'. 'It can regrow damaged cells, but chronic injury leads to scarring that can't be reversed,' he said in a
post
shared on Instagram.
Chronic injury can be caused by alcohol, poor diet, or disease, which can lead to irreversible scarring, known as cirrhosis.
Coffee is more than an indulgence
Good news for coffee lovers. Your indulgence brings more than joy. It's a liver medicine. Drinking three or more cups of coffee daily is linked to a 40% lower risk of cirrhosis and liver cancer, according to
studies
. Dr. Sethi has advised skipping the sugar and cream to maximize benefits. 'However, be careful, individual sensitivity to caffeine varies and may cause insomnia, palpitations, or anxiety,' he cautioned.
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
5 Books Warren Buffett Wants You to Read In 2025
Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List
Undo
Even non-drinkers can get
fatty liver
Fatty liver affects 1 in 3 adults, even non-drinkers, the liver doctor said. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) affects, even those who abstain from alcohol. Often symptomless until significant damage occurs, NAFLD is on the rise due to poor diets and sedentary lifestyles. Regular checkups can catch it early.
Liver processes everything you swallow, including meds
The liver processes everything you ingest, including medications. Dr. Sethi warned that over-the-counter painkillers like acetaminophen can cause severe liver damage in high doses.
'Always confirm the correct dosage with your doctor,' he said.
Sleep quality directly affects the liver repair
Poor sleep affects the liver's ability to metabolize nutrients and clear toxins. Dr. Sethi has recommended getting at least seven to 9 hours of quality sleep every night to support the liver's repair processes and overall function.
Liver has its own clock
Dr. Sethi emphasized that the liver operates on a circadian rhythm. Hence, eating late at night can disrupt its natural detox cycle.
This seemingly harmless habit can lead to fat accumulation in the liver.
You are surrounded by hidden liver toxins
Yes, that's right. Common household products like cleaning agents, pesticides, and even some cosmetics contain toxins that burden the liver. 'Opt for natural alternatives,' he suggested.
Supplements could also harm your liver
Some supplements you take, hoping to improve your health, can in fact harm your liver. Marketed as health boosters, some herbal supplements and high-dose vitamins can cause inflammation or damage the liver. Dr. Sethi has emphasized the importance of consulting a physician before starting any supplement regimen to ensure safety.
Shoaib Ibrahim Confirms Dipika Kakar's Cancer can return | Treatment May Take 2 Years
Hydration is crucial
Drinking adequate water throughout the day is the best thing you can do for your liver. This will help the liver to flush out toxins efficiently. 'Aim for 2-3 liters daily,' the liver doctor suggested.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
2 hours ago
- Time of India
Push against diarrhoea deaths in kids
Chandigarh: To safeguard the health of young children in the state, Punjab health minister Dr Balbir Singh on Tuesday launched the 'STOP Diarrhoea Campaign 2025'. The two-month-long initiative aims to prevent mortality among children under five. The minister also unveiled awareness posters. Dr Balbir Singh emphasised: "Diarrhoea is a major cause of child deaths — each one a tragic and avoidable loss. This campaign is our pledge to protect every child with awareness, prevention, and timely treatment." He said the health department would adopt a prevent-protect-treat (PPT) strategy, targeting high-risk monsoon months. The state will deploy door-to-door ORS-Zinc kit distribution through ASHA workers. Besides, ORS-Zinc corners will be established at all health institutions and Anganwadis, and health workers' skills will be enhanced to manage cases effectively. "No child should die from a treatable condition. We are ensuring ORS, Zinc, IV fluids, and antibiotics are available at every health facility," said the minister. Underlining the need for awareness, Dr Balbir Singh he said the campaign prioritises community mobilisation for handwashing, safe drinking water, exclusive breastfeeding, sanitation, and immunisation. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Urban Ascent by Emaar 4 BHK Apartments Starting at ₹ 5.25 Cr* on Dwarka E-Way , Near Gurugram Emaar India Get Quote Undo "Diarrhoea is preventable — clean hands, clean water, and timely care can save lives," urged the minister. He called for the participation of panchayati raj leaders, self-help groups, teachers, and parents to champion the cause. Dr Balbir Singh said Punjab had been fostering inter-departmental collaboration with education, women child department, water and sanitation, and rural development department to address diarrhoea's root causes. "This is not just a health issue, it's a battle for Punjab's future. Together, we will break the chain of infection," he asserted. The minister made an appeal to keep the surroundings clean, use safe water, and act fast if diarrhoea strikes — start ORS-Zinc immediately and seek medical help. He also advocated drinking local drinks such as lemonade (shikanji) as the intake of liquids is essential for hydration. Fight against rabies A memorandum of understanding (MoU), under the National Rabies Control Programme, was signed between the health department and Peedu – an animal welfare NGO located in Mohali – to facilitate coordinated efforts towards the preparation of the State Action Plan for Rabies Elimination by 2030. The initiative involves the engagement of various stakeholders, along with the training of health staff and counselling sessions at anti-rabies clinics in district Mohali, with the scope for future expansion across the state. MSID:: 122515974 413 |
Time of India
2 hours ago
- Time of India
ET Graphics: Weight loss drugs Tirzepatide, Semaglutide dominate India, misuse fears rise
New-age weight-loss molecules have taken over the anti-obesity drug market in India , with tirzepatide and semaglutide (generic names) collectively occupying 75% of the market share. Doctors see Eli Lilly's Mounjaro and Novo Nordisk's Wegovy as important ammunitions in the anti-obesity treatment. However, experts also point out the risk of the drug being misused by many — especially young adults — amplied by aggressive marketing, widespread social media promotions and a growing peer pressure driven by the weight loss fad. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Discover Effortless Glucose Monitoring: Request a Free Trial Dexcom Click Here Undo
Time of India
2 hours ago
- Time of India
Cutting back on salt alone cannot regulate high blood pressure: Top doctor urges to add THIS vital mineral to manage hypertension
High blood pressure is a major health concern. Dr. Shirley Koeh suggests adding potassium to the diet. Potassium helps regulate blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels. Foods like avocados, spinach, and bananas are rich in potassium. Celery juice and beetroot extract can also help. These dietary changes can improve heart health. Focus on potassium intake for better blood pressure management. High blood pressure, aka hypertension, is a silent killer and is a major risk factor for stroke, heart disease, kidney disease, and other chronic diseases. For years, reducing salt intake has been the go-to advice for managing high blood pressure; however, a leading functional medicine expert says it's only half the equation. Dr. Shirley Koeh, a functional medicine doctor based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, has emphasized the importance of adding one vital mineral to the diet to manage hypertension, a condition affecting millions worldwide. 'When it comes to high blood pressure, everyone talks about cutting down salt, but here is what's missing. Adding potassium can be just as powerful,' Dr. Koeh said, in a video shared on social media. The role of potassium in regulating blood pressure Potassium plays a crucial role in regulating blood pressure. While sodium has been shown to increase blood pressure, potassium can reduce the effects of sodium. Cutting back on sodium not only decreases the blood pressure and the incidence of hypertension, but is also associated with a reduction in morbidity and mortality from cardiovascular diseases. Priyanka Chopra Responds to 'Hot Dog vs Vada Pav' Backlash: 'It's Not That Serious' Potassium works by relaxing blood vessel walls and helping the body excrete excess sodium, reducing strain on the cardiovascular system. In simple terms, the more potassium you eat, the more sodium you lose through urine. Eat foods rich in potassium Dr. Koeh has urged people with hypertension or those trying to control blood pressure to incorporate potassium-rich foods. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like American Investor Warren Buffett Recommends: 5 Books For Turning Your Life Around Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo 'Instead of focusing on cutting down salt, you can add more potassium-rich food,' she said. Avocados top her list of potassium-rich foods. A nutrient-dense fruit, avocado is packed with heart-healthy fats and potassium. Spinach is the next in line. These leafy greens provide a potent dose of potassium along with magnesium, another mineral linked to blood pressure regulation. You can add spinach to salads or smoothies for a daily dose of potassium. Bananas are also rich in potassium; however, the doctor has cautioned those with blood sugar issues to consume them in moderation. Mushrooms, beans, and lentils are also good for the diet. Along with potassium, they also provide fiber and other nutrients that support overall heart health. In addition to the whole foods, Dr. Koeh also suggests adding celery juice and beetroot extract to manage blood pressure. Celery juice is rich in potassium and natural nitrates. Celery can help relax blood vessels. Beetroot extract, on the other hand, is known for its high nitrate content. It helps with the dilation of blood vessels and improves blood flow. Studies also support that beetroot juice lowers the clinical systolic blood pressure, with a significant effect up to 90 days of intervention.
