World Hepatitis Day: 9 tips for a healthy liver

Eat a healthy diet: What you eat has a direct impact on how your body responds to things. You should eat a diet rich in fiber (whole grains, rice, cereals, fresh fruits, and vegetables), dairy (low-fat milk, cheese in moderation), good fats (vegetable oils, nuts, seeds, fish), and drink plenty of water. You should avoid eating foods high in calories, saturated fat, and refined carbohydrates. Image courtesy: Adobe stock

Maintain healthy weight: Being overweight or obese makes you vulnerable to liver diseases such as fatty liver or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Did you know NAFLD is the fastest-growing liver disease? If you are obese or overweight, you should try to lose weight by eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly. Image courtesy: Adobe stock

Drink alcohol in moderation: It goes without saying that drinking too much alcohol can lead to liver health problems. Drinking too much alcohol can scar your liver and kills the cells in your liver, and lead to liver damage. It is recommended for women to limit their alcohol intake to one, whereas women should drink at least two drinks per day. Image courtesy: Adobe stock

Exercise regularly: Regular physical activity is essential to maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of developing unwanted diseases. Exercises reduce stress on the liver and give you an energy boost. Try to incorporate at least 150 minutes of exercise every week to keep liver diseases at bay. Image courtesy: Adobe stock

Practice safe sex: Did you know that hepatitis A and B can spread through sexual contact? For the unversed, hepatitis happens due to an inflammation in your liver. So, avoid unprotected sex or sex with multiple partners to avoid the transmission of hepatitis. Image courtesy: Adobe stock

Get vaccinated: Vaccinations are available to prevent the infection of hepatitis A and hepatitis B. People of all age groups, including infants can get vaccinated against the disease. However, there are no vaccinations for hepatitis C. Image courtesy: Adobe stock

Avoid unnecessary medicines: Do you have a habit of popping a pill the moment you get a headache or stomachache? Well, don't! Consult a doctor first to avoid taking unnecessary medication. Sometimes natural remedies can also subside the pain. In any case, be cautious about over-the-counter medications and herbal supplements to avoid liver damage. Image courtesy: Adobe stock

Wash your hands: Did you know that hepatitis B spreads when you eat food or drink water with contaminated hands? One of the best ways to keep germs away is by washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Do this without fail before you change a diaper, after using a bathroom, and before preparing food. Image courtesy: Adobe stock

Get regular checkups: If you drink heavily or liver diseases run in your family or you show any symptoms, you should get a checkup with your doctor immediately. Even if you are notat risk, getting a checkup to keep your liver healthy will do you no harm. Early intervention will help you get it treated fast and avoid dire consequences. Image courtesy: Adobe stock