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World Liver Day, observed every year on April 19, is a global health awareness day dedicated to raising consciousness about liver-related diseases and the importance of liver health. The liver, one of the most vital organs in the human body, performs over 500 essential functions. Chronic stress can have a significant impact on liver health, often in ways that go unnoticed until complications arise.
When the body is under constant stress, it releases higher levels of cortisol and other stress hormones, which can lead to inflammation and metabolic imbalances. This hormonal surge puts extra strain on the liver, which is responsible for filtering toxins and regulating metabolism. "We all know stress is bad, but it can wreak havoc on your liver, your body's vital detoxifying organ. The liver is the organ that meets and filters a mass of material and then maintains immune tolerance. Under stress conditions, however, immune tolerance is interrupted, which results in the inflammation of the liver", says Dr Abhishek Deepak, Consultant Gastroenterology, Sharda Care Healthcity. Many studies have partially revealed the contributors of stress‐induced liver injury. Here's how:
Stress causes chronic cortisol release of the "stress hormone." Whereas transient cortisol rises have benefits, their sustained release has systemic pro-inflammatory effects. Cortisol indirectly results in hepatotoxicity leading to conditions like NAFLD with fat being stored in liver tissue. An episode of stress has also been recognized to worsen clinical symptoms and hepatic biochemistry parameters in patients with chronic type B or C viral hepatitis.
Stress typically results in unhealthy food choices. Grabbing for sugary foods, junk food, and too much caffeine becomes a solution. These options are full of refined sugars and unhealthy fats and are directly adding to fat deposition in the liver and worsening NAFLD.
A stressful lifestyle often translates to inadequate sleep. Sleep is crucial for the liver's regenerative processes. During sleep, the liver works to repair damaged cells and detoxify the body. People with poor nighttime sleep and prolonged daytime napping have the highest risk for developing fatty liver disease.
Stress can lead to a more sedentary lifestyle. When overwhelmed, exercise often falls by the wayside. Physical activity helps regulate blood sugar, reduce inflammation, and promote healthy weight management. A lack of exercise contributes to insulin resistance, a key factor in the development of NAFLD.
Many people turn to alcohol to cope with stress. While a glass of wine occasionally might seem harmless, excessive alcohol consumption is a direct toxin to the liver. It can lead to alcoholic fatty liver disease, alcoholic hepatitis, and eventually cirrhosis. Combining stress with increased alcohol intake is a recipe for serious liver problems.
By knowing these relationships, you can take proactive measures to control your stress and maintain liver health. Prioritize sleeping, maintain a healthy diet, include regular exercise, and seek healthy ways to cope with stress.
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