New Delhi: The liver is known as the detox powerhouse of the human body. It performs over 500 essential functions to keep an individual healthy. People may not be aware of this, but the liver and heart share an intricate connection. A compromised liver can increase the risk of heart disease, making liver health crucial for maintaining the cardiovascular system. Dr. Bhavesh Patel, Consultant Gastroenterologist, Bhailal Amin General Hospital, spoke about what makes the liver such an important component of health and well-being.
How does the liver affect heart health?
The liver and heart are interconnected through blood circulation, metabolism, and inflammation control. The liver processes nutrients, removes toxinsand regulates cholesterol levels; these are the functions that can impact heart health significantly. One of the major links between the liver and heart is non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). It occurs when excess fat accumulates in the liver due to obesity, a poor dietor a poor lifestyle. This condition can progress to inflammation, leading to liver dysfunction. NAFLD is also associated with metabolic syndromes, including high BP, high cholesterol, insulin resistance obesity, which can become major risk factors for heart disease.
The liver regulates cholesterol levels by producing and clearing lipoproteins. A dysfunctional liver may lead to excess bad cholesterol while reducing good cholesterol levels, which can lead to plaque buildup in the arteries. This can increase the risk of narrowing of arteries due to fat deposits, leading to heart attacks.
Consequences of living with an ailing, weak liver
A damaged liver releases inflammatory markers and cytokines that circulate in the blood. Chronic inflammation is a well-known factor in hypertension, arterial stiffness heart failure. When the Liver is fatty or inflamed, it may cause insulin resistance, leading to type 2 diabetes. Liver disease can contribute to hypertension as well. It is a condition where blood pressure rises due to liver dysfunction; this can also increase the strain on the heart. Liver dysfunction may also lead to abnormal clot formation, increasing the risk of heart attacks and stroke.
To maintain optimum liver healtheat fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables whole grains. Reduce the consumption of processed foods and added sugars. Individuals can include healthy fats to reduce liver inflammation and stay hydrated to aid detoxification. An individual should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week. Losing weight according to your BMI can improve liver function. Regular screenings may help in detecting high cholesterol, diabetes, or metabolic issues early. Always consult a doctor before taking any medication or supplements that can affect the liver
The liver regulates cholesterol levels by producing and clearing lipoproteins. A dysfunctional liver may lead to excess bad cholesterol while reducing good cholesterol levels, which can lead to plaque buildup in the arteries. This can increase the risk of narrowing of arteries due to fat deposits, leading to heart attacks. Health Conditions Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
