7 ways to relieve liver heat

Dr. Huynh Van Trung from the Center for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy and Laparoscopic Surgery at Tam Anh General Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City states that "liver heat," a condition indicating liver inflammation or dysfunction often caused by unhealthy habits or underlying diseases, can be effectively managed through a combination of dietary and lifestyle adjustments.

Early signs of liver dysfunction are often subtle, including fatigue, loss of appetite, and abdominal discomfort. If ignored, these symptoms can worsen to jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes), itching, bloating, nausea, bleeding gums, insomnia, and general weakness. Dr. Trung stresses that medical treatment combined with healthy habits is crucial for managing this condition.

Here are seven expert-recommended strategies to alleviate liver heat:

Increase Vegetable and Protein Intake: Consuming more leafy greens and fruits aids in liver cleansing and supports its natural detoxification processes. Protein helps stabilize blood sugar and body weight, thereby reducing the liver's workload.

Stay Well-Hydrated: Adequate water intake is essential for regulating body temperature, flushing toxins through urine and sweat, and combating oxidative stress. Beyond plain water, beneficial beverages for liver health include winter melon juice, brown rice water, green tea, and various herbal teas.

Reduce Carbohydrate Consumption: Foods high in refined carbohydrates, such as bread, rice, noodles, and potatoes, can be converted into fat and contribute to fatty liver disease. Additionally, fried foods, processed snacks, canned goods, red meat, and fresh bamboo shoots should be limited to prevent overwhelming the liver.

Avoid Alcohol: Limiting or completely avoiding alcohol consumption allows liver cells to regenerate and helps reduce inflammation within the organ.

Ensure Sufficient Rest: Aiming for at least eight hours of sleep per night, ideally before 11 p.m., provides the liver with crucial time to repair itself and carry out its vital detoxification functions.

Manage Stress: Engaging in stress-reducing activities like reading, meditation, or listening to music can positively impact both liver health and overall digestive well-being.

Exercise Regularly: Incorporating 30 minutes of moderate physical activity into your daily routine can boost metabolism, improve overall health, and significantly lower the risk of developing liver heat.