Common myths about liver health

The liver works continuously to eliminate toxins while supporting digestion and storing energy. Fatty liver disease and cirrhosis can be prevented through proper diet, exercise and regular health check-ups. However, many misconceptions can lead to habits that damage the liver.

Liver disease only occurs in people who drink alcohol

Drinking alcohol produces toxic byproducts, especially acetaldehyde, when broken down. This leads to fat accumulation (fatty liver), hepatitis, cirrhosis and can progress to liver failure or cancer through many stages.

People who do not drink alcohol can still develop non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), often related to obesity, diabetes and eating a lot of processed foods. Fat accumulation in the liver leads to inflammation and fibrosis, which occurs independently of alcohol. Protecting the liver requires more than abstaining from alcohol, because genetic factors, medications and metabolic syndrome also affect it. You should maintain a stable weight, eat healthy, limit sugar and processed foods, and combine regular exercise.

Detoxify the liver as much as possible

The body has a natural mechanism to detoxify the liver every day, so overuse of detox tea or products of unknown origin sometimes causes harmful effects. Some products can increase liver enzymes, causing diarrhea or kidney failure without providing any real benefit. Before use, consult your doctor. To support the liver, eat nutritious meals, drink plenty of water, and limit sugar and alcohol. Adding fiber-rich vegetables (spinach, beets, broccoli) and drinking 1.8-2 liters of water a day also helps the liver function effectively.

Beer and wine are not harmful

Spirits like vodka or whiskey are often considered more harmful than beer or wine, but the total amount of alcohol consumed is the important factor. All alcoholic beverages, including beer and wine, can harm the liver if consumed in excess. Monitor your intake or consider limiting it to protect your liver health.

Normal liver enzymes mean a healthy liver

A normal liver enzyme index, including ALT and AST, does not mean the liver is completely healthy, because severe damage or cirrhosis can still exist without liver enzymes increasing. Basic blood tests do not provide enough information, combined with ultrasound, liver cirrhosis or biopsy if necessary. People who are overweight or have a family history of liver disease should have regular liver health checks. Doctors combine blood tests and imaging to detect diseases early, provide timely treatment and avoid serious complications.

Liver disease always comes with symptoms

Jaundice or abdominal pain are common signs of liver damage. However, many liver diseases progress silently over many years and are known as “silent killers”. Hepatitis and fatty liver often have no obvious symptoms until severe stages, when swelling or jaundice appears suddenly. Daily digestive discomfort can also be a sign of liver involvement. Regular screening and health checks help detect damage early and can improve the condition.