by The Grenada Food and Nutrition Council
Men are more likely to die from chronic liver disease and cirrhosis than women.
Liver disease and cirrhosis occurs when the liver becomes scared and permanently damaged from a number of health issues such as fatty liver disease, excessive drinking, viral infections like hepatitis B and C, and diabetes.
The liver is responsible for filtering the blood that flows throughout the body. It removes waste, toxins, and bacteria and breaks down poisonous substances that we consume such as drugs and alcohol, it also helps the body to store vitamins and minerals. Bile, a substance that is essential for digesting fats and removing waste from the body, is also made in the liver. When the liver becomes damaged, these functions become difficult or impossible and can result in liver failure.
There are 4 stages in chronic liver disease.
- Hepatitis: the liver tissues become inflamed
- Fibrosis: the tissues of the liver begin to scare and stiffen, restricting the blood flow in the organ
- Cirrhosis: there is permanent scarring in the liver, which may be reversible with early detection and treatment, and finally,
- Liver failure: when the liver can no longer function properly and there is a need for a liver transplant
A man is at risk of these if he drinks too much alcohol, is obese or overweight, uses intravenous drugs (which are drugs inserted directly into a vein), uses pain relievers like aspirin or acetaminophen, is regularly exposed to toxic chemicals, and exposure to other people’s infected blood or body fluids, such as semen or sperm. Early symptoms include upper abdominal pain, nausea or loss of appetite, and frequently feeling tired.
The health of the liver can be promoted through proper nutrition that includes a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats, staying hydrated by drinking adequate amounts of water daily and exercising regularly. Limiting the consumption of processed foods, fatty and fried foods, sugary drinks, and excessive alcohol consumption is important, since these practices can strain the liver. A healthier liver can also be promoted through avoiding illicit drugs and practicing safe sex.
GFNC
Sources:
https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/cirrhosis-of-the-liver
https://abcnews.go.com/Health/story?id=117219&page=1
https://www.webmd.com/hepatitis/fatty-liver-disease#1-4
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4246-hepatitis-b