Love your liver and it will love you back.
Your liver does not get the same press and media attention as the heart or the brain, but there are plenty of reasons not to take it for granted. It is the second-largest organ in your body and has hundreds of functions including detoxification, processing nutrients, dozens of tasks related to a healthy metabolism, and more.
For diabetics, a healthy liver is essential for good blood sugar management. In addition to its role in detoxifying the blood, the liver plays a part in regulating blood glucose in the body and ensuring proper insulin levels. It also aids in controlling lipid levels in blood which helps to support good cholesterol.
Many diabetics take medications to manage their disease. A happy liver can process your meds efficiently. Otherwise, medications may not work properly, and you could experience significant side effects and toxicity.
It is easier than you think to damage your liver, especially if you are overweight or a heavy drinker, but you can also heal your liver and easily promote good liver health. Three ways:
- Maintain a balanced diet – eat a variety of nutrient-rich foods including fruits, vegetables, and quality proteins. Foods high in antioxidants promote liver health. Cut back on sugar, and refined carbohydrates, and drink plenty of water.
- Exercising regularly staying active helps to in losing and keeping extra weight off. A healthy weight reduces your risk of fatty liver disease. Adding some strength training can improve your overall metabolic health.
- Stay away from harmful substances-follow guidelines for moderate drinking and avoid drinking every day. Take medications as directed and be careful about supplements. Make sure a prescribing healthcare professional knows about the medications you are currently taking. Avoid illegal drugs and environmental toxins which can damage liver cells. Is it possible to detox or cleanse your liver? It is a good question. According to sources like Johns Hopkins University, there is no clinical evidence that treatments and supplements claim to clean out your liver work. Additionally, as mentioned earlier, you should exercise some caution when adding new supplements to your routine. Taking steps to maintain a healthy liver is a good path toward optimum health for diabetics and everyone else. What are your thoughts about your liver? RJB
