One in eight middle-aged Britons could develop serious liver disease due to being overweight, according to a researcher.
Studies of 3,000 people in the UK Biological Research Project showed that 12% of them had hepatitis, which can lead to cirrhosis, liver failure, and even death.
Meanwhile, the results can be reversed if patients are diagnosed early. Here are 7 ways to keep their livers healthy:
Watch Your Weight
It looks like being overweight will overtake alcohol as the leading cause of liver disease by 2020. Excess calories can lead to the liver becoming "swamped" with fat.
Experts therefore recommend losing weight and following a diet based on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
Avoid Alcoholism
People should monitor their alcohol intake, aiming for two or three alcohol-free days per week.
Drink Coffee in Moderation
Research suggests that regular moderate coffee consumption (3 to 5 cups per day) is associated with a lower risk of liver disease and can reduce the risk of liver cancer by up to 40%.
Walking
Walking can further stimulate liver fat levels. Researchers at the University of Liverpool found that for every additional hour spent sitting, liver fat increased by 0.87%.
Eat Broccoli
Regularly eating broccoli can be beneficial for your liver health. A study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that long-term consumption of broccoli helped prevent the accumulation of fat in the livers of mice.
Painkiller Relief
Paracetamol is one of the most common medications that can harm the liver, along with other over-the-counter products, including painkillers and migraine tablets.
Experts warn of the particular dangers of taking paracetamol with alcohol, so it's best not to mix them.
Avoid detox diets
A healthy liver helps cleanse the body of toxins. Experts say the liver is amazing because it has the ability to regenerate as long as it isn't damaged. They also advise people to avoid diets or any products that could "cleanse" the liver.