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One Common Habit That Could Be Damaging Your Liver

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It’s a well-known fact that excessive alcohol consumption can put you at risk for liver disease and liver cancer but what’s more concerning is there is one common habit that could damage your liver in devastating ways—and it’s not booze.

In fact, one in four Americans are at risk for developing fatty liver disease—more specifically NAFLD (non-alcoholic fatty liver disease), according to Dr. Supriya Rao, MD, a gastroenterologist and managing partner at Integrated Gastroenterology Consultants.⁠ “Hearing the words ‘fatty liver’ may immediately let you think about too much alcohol,” she explains, “but unfortunately, NAFLD is a silent disease. You might not even know that you have it until the damage is done…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>

 

Gastroenterologist Dr. Sarah Robbins points out that this disease not only affects the liver but also contributes to systemic conditions that extend far beyond liver health. “Fatty liver disease, particularly NAFLD, is emerging as a leading cause of chronic liver disease, cirrhosis and liver cancer, as well as an important risk factor for type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease,” she shares.

So what exactly causes this fatty liver disease if it’s not alcohol? Keep reading to find out the common habit that could be damaging your liver, plus how to keep it functioning properly and signs that something could be wrong.

According to Dr. Rao, one of the worst things you can do for your liver involves eating an unhealthy diet, so steer clear of processed foods and sugar-sweetened beverages. “A whole food, plant-based (or plant-predominant) diet helps us function at a higher level,” she explains. One easy way to do this is to “eat the rainbow,” which consists of eating lots of colorful fruits and veggies and skipping heavy pasta, fried foods and decadent desserts.

Dr. Darlene Negbenebor, MD, a board-certified gastroenterologist at Stamford Gastroenterology agrees that eating a diet high in saturated fats and simple carbohydrates (the typical American diet) and increased alcohol intake are the most common habits that cause liver injury. To avoid your liver taking a downward spiral, she suggests minimizing your alcohol intake and maintaining a healthy weight.” “Several studies show that following a Mediterranean diet, which is a diet high in fruit, vegetables and healthy fats, improves liver fat deposition and Inflammation,” she adds.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) also suggests that high fructose intake may trigger fatty liver disease by damaging the intestinal barrier. Dr. Rao warns that the excessive consumption of sugar-sweetened drinks can lead to a buildup of fat in the liver, which increases your risk for NAFLD. “This occurs when visceral fat enters the liver and takes up more than 5 percent of its mass,” she shares. “Over time, this can progress to chronic inflammation and scarring.”

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease isn’t the only concern to consider before you reach for that soda, however. Dr. Rao says of those with NAFLD, about 20 percent have NASH (non-alcoholic steatohepatitis) which occurs when there is inflammation and liver cell injury and 25 percent of those with NASH may have cirrhosis (irreversible scarring) which can lead to liver cancer and other organ system failure.

Unlike other diseases that may have more visible warning signs, liver damage can often go undetected without testing. Dr. Negbenebor points out that the earliest signs of liver damage would be abnormal liver function tests seen on a routine lab test that’s usually ordered by your primary care doctor during an annual physical. “Typically liver disease remains asymptomatic until it is quite advanced,” she says.

If the fatty liver disease has progressed to a more advanced stage like NASH or cirrhosis, the symptoms can be more obvious and severe, says Dr. Robbins. Symptoms of advanced liver disease and cirrhosis include:

Jaundice:

This condition causes your skin and the whites of your eyes to turn yellow, reflecting a problem with the liver’s ability to process bilirubin.

Abdominal pain and swelling:

Liver disease can cause inflammation and swelling in the liver, leading to discomfort or pain in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen.

Swelling in the legs and ankles: READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

This can be a sign of liver disease as it may reflect that your liver isn’t making enough protein to keep fluid in the bloodstream, causing fluid to leak into the tissues.

Chronic fatigue:

Feeling persistently tired or weak can be a sign of liver disease.

Dark urine color:

If your liver isn’t functioning correctly, your urine may be dark due to the excess bilirubin being excreted through the kidneys.

Loss of appetite:

A decline in hunger or a feeling of fullness after eating small amounts can be a sign of liver disease.

Nausea and vomiting:

These can be common symptoms of liver dysfunction.

Confusion, drowsiness and slurred speech (hepatic encephalopathy):

These symptoms can occur when toxins build up in the bloodstream because the liver isn’t adequately removing them.

Motivated to keep your liver healthy? We have some good news: Increasing your intake of plants is a good starting point to get your liver back on track. “We want less processed foods and more unprocessed plant foods,” says Dr. Rao. This means avoiding saturated fats, bacon and processed red meat while increasing your intake of lean proteins and omega-3 fatty acids. She also says to toss the white bread due to its refined carbohydrates and switch to whole grains instead.

Dr. Robbins has more good news for coffee drinkers, saying several studies have suggested that coffee consumption may actually protect against chronic liver disease. “This is likely due to its antioxidant properties and its ability to reduce inflammation,” she adds. And let’s not forget exercise. “Maintaining a healthy lifestyle by exercising regularly is another way to reduce the amount of fat stored in the liver,” she explains.

Lastly, the right micronutrients are vital for liver health but they should ideally come from a balanced diet and not a surplus of supplement bottles. A few of her recommendations that support healthy liver function are vitamin E (a potent antioxidant that has been shown to reduce inflammation), vitamin D (to regulate cellular growth and immune function) vitamins B12 and Folate (which can help the liver process alcohol and drugs), as well as zinc, selenium and magnesium. “Magnesium plays a role in many enzymatic reactions in the body, including those in the liver,” she says.

 

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HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

3 Reasons Why People Die In Their Sleep: Please Do Not Ignore

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Getting adequate shut-eye is crucial to your health, and that much should go without saying. However, it could be unhealthy to sleep too little. When you lay your head down for the night, a lot of bad things can happen to you.

Have you ever wondered what causes individuals to pass away peacefully during their sleep? It is a phenomenon that has intrigued scientists, doctors, and the general public alike. In this blog post, we delve into the five most common reasons why people may unfortunately die in their sleep…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>

While this topic may seem morbid, understanding these causes can help shed light on certain health risks, encourage awareness, and encourage proactive measures to prevent such circumstances. So, let’s explore the various factors that can lead to these unexpected occurrences.

5 Reasons Why People Die in Their Sleep

1. Cardiac Arrest: A Silent Culprit

Cardiac arrest is one of the most prevalent causes of sudden death during sleep. It occurs when the heart’s electrical system malfunctions, resulting in a sudden loss of blood flow to the brain and other vital organs. Factors like age, family history, lifestyle choices, such as smoking and unhealthy diets, and underlying medical conditions can all contribute to an increased risk of cardiac arrest during sleep.
Factors Leading to Cardiac Arrest

a. Age and Genetics: The Silent Influencers

As individuals age, the risk of cardiac arrest, especially during sleep, increases. Family history also plays a role, as genetic predispositions can make some individuals more susceptible to experiencing cardiac issues. It is crucial to be aware of these factors, as prevention and early detection can significantly reduce the risk.

b. Lifestyle Choices: Pushing the Boundaries

Poor lifestyle choices, such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, lack of physical activity, and an unhealthy diet, can heighten the risk of cardiac arrest during sleep. Adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle can significantly minimize the occurrence of such incidents. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

2. Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Breathing Troubles

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a common sleep disorder characterized by breathing difficulty during sleep. People with OSA experience temporary blockages in their airways, leading to frequent interruptions in their breathing patterns. Severe cases of OSA can result in a decrease in oxygen levels, causing stress on the heart and an increased likelihood of heart-related health issues.
Contributing Factors to Obstructive Sleep Apnea

a. Obesity: A Weighty Matter

Obesity is a major contributing factor to OSA. Excess weight, particularly around the neck and throat area, narrows the airways and can lead to frequent breathing disruptions during sleep. Maintaining a healthy weight through proper diet and exercise is essential in reducing the risk of OSA-related fatalities during sleep.

b. Untreated Snoring: A Warning Sign

Persistent snoring can be an indicator of an underlying health issue, including OSA. Failing to address chronic snoring can lead to severe complications and fatal outcomes during sleep. Seeking medical advice and undergoing necessary diagnostic tests can facilitate early detection and appropriate treatment.

Conclusion

While passing away peacefully during sleep is relatively rare, understanding the potential causes can help safeguard against potential health risks. By acknowledging the importance of leading a healthy lifestyle, being aware of our family history, and heeding warning signs like chronic snoring, we can take proactive measures to minimize the possibility of experiencing these unfortunate circumstances. Remember, prevention and early detection are key in maintaining overall well-being and longevity. Stay informed, take care of your health, and give yourself the best chance of a restful night’s sleep!

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When You Drink Hot Water Every Day, This Is What Happens To Your Body

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Have you ever given any thought to what would happen to your body if you continually subjected it to the effects of drinking hot water? When everything is taken into account, we are aware that water is important for the body to keep adequately hydrated and that it accounts for sixty percent of the human adult body (via USGS). Water makes up sixty percent of the human adult body. Who would have thought, though, that the temperature at which you consume it plays a role in the kinds of health benefits you gain from it…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>

 

As a result of the fact that Tom Cruise’s relationship with Suri has been lately brought to light in a variety of different ways.

However, drinking water that has been brought to a boil on a frequent basis offers a variety of additional health benefits, which your body may be prevented from taking advantage of if you drink cold water instead of water that has been brought to a boil. People have a propensity, when they think about drinking water, to picture themselves in a position in which they are sipping some water that is really cold while basking in the warmth of the late spring sun or relishing in the virus-like sensation of it after a particularly tough twisting class. This is because people have a tendency to picture themselves in scenarios in which they are partaking in activities that involve extreme temperatures. Drinking warm water first thing in the morning is recommended by medical professionals, as stated by Stella Metsovas, a professional nutritionist, who explains why this is the case. Medical Daily has been provided with this information. In point of fact, and to some degree one is taken aback by this revelation, access to this kind of information has been available for a significant amount of time now. According to Reader’s Digest, both Chinese and Indian physicians encourage drinking this steaming hot beverage first thing in the morning to get the most out of the day due to the many excellent benefits it has on one’s health. This is because traditional Chinese medicine and Indian medicine both believe that drinking this beverage in the morning helps one get the most out of the day.

Therefore, would you be so kind as to elaborate on what you mean by that? If you drink hot water on a regular basis, your body will experience these effects, which are something that may be expected.

There is some evidence that lowering your blood pressure can be accomplished by drinking hot water on a regular basis. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

In this difficult environment, there is a clear approach for being able to stretch less, and it all starts with establishing a daily appreciation for water. This is the first step in the process. Dietitian Amanda Carlson, who is also a qualified dietitian, is of the opinion that individuals can benefit from keeping an adequate level of hydration in order to experience reduced levels of anxiety. If you don’t give your body the liquids it needs, you’re adding extra weight to it, and your body will react to this by acting erratically.

According to Healthline, consuming hot water reduces the activity of your focus sensory system, which is responsible for determining how your brain reacts when it is subjected to pressure. According to the American Psychological Association, not getting enough water can cause confusion in the central nervous system, which can trigger a vicious loop that never comes to an end. It is actually easier to become dehydrated when you are under pressure, as your pulse will be higher than normal, and you will be breathing more actively than usual, says Renee Melton, MS, RD, LD, who is the head of nutrition at Sensei. This is because your pulse will be higher when you are under strain. WebMD received this information from another source. Therefore, if you truly want to get rid of the problem the next time it comes up, you might want to consider the alternative of continuously drinking hot water.

Regularly consuming water that has been heated to a boil has the ability to reduce the amount of physical pain and suffering that individual is experiencing

 

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Place this leaf in every corner of your house and you will not see cockroaches again

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Cockroaches are notorious and unsightly pests that are commonly associated with waste and dirt. However, they can also be found in homes, making their way into the closets and bedrooms.

Their ability to adapt and survive is remarkable, allowing them to thrive in various environments around the world. Cockroaches are incredibly resilient creatures, capable of withstanding high levels of radiation and surviving for over a month without food. As omnivores, they can consume both plant-based foods and other animals, which explains their ubiquitous presence as they scavenge for sustenance…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>

 

In addition to feeding on garbage, cockroaches leave chemical trails through their feces. This serves as a form of communication, enabling them to locate sources of water and food. It is this behavior that leads to their establishment in specific areas. Despite their ability to squeeze through tiny openings and endure long periods without sustenance, they often enter homes through bags, boxes, and even gaps under doors.

If you’re looking to eliminate cockroaches that have invaded your home, I recommend a highly effective method that is safe, especially if you have young children or pets. Bay leaves serve as an excellent natural repellent for cockroaches. While they may not kill the pests, the strong odor emitted by the leaves is unbearable for them, driving them away quickly. Placing bay leaf branches in every corner of the house is recommended.

Specifically, putting ten bay leaves in the kitchen will prevent cockroaches from roaming around. Bay leaves are particularly suitable for areas where food is stored, such as the kitchen or pantry, as they are safe and non-toxic. Additionally, I suggest placing bay leaves in your garden, especially if you have pets. This way, you can eliminate cockroaches without worrying about the safety of your children or pets. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

Whether you use fresh or dried bay leaves, the most effective way to utilize them is to crush the dry leaves into a powder. This intensifies the fragrance they release. To use bay leaves as a cockroach deterrent, place whole leaves behind appliances, near entry points, in closets, and in various corners of your home. Open containers and bowls can also be filled with bay leaves and strategically placed. Furthermore, burning a bay leaf in your home not only adds a pleasant natural aroma but also provides additional cockroach protection.

In conclusion, by ensuring you have ten bay leaves in the kitchen, you can effectively prevent cockroaches from roaming around. Bay leaves are a safe and non-toxic option for areas where food is stored, such as the kitchen or pantry. By following this method, you can eliminate cockroaches without worrying about the safety of your children.

 

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