Experts give tips
This is how your liver survives Advent
06.12.2024Reading time: 2 min.
Snacking is part of Christmas, but high consumption puts a strain on the liver. The German Liver Foundation gives tips for a liver-healthy Advent season.
Gingerbread, mulled wine and the Christmas goose: Advent offers lots of treats every year. As flavorful as they are, December is not the healthiest season for the body. The liver in particular is put under a lot of strain by the delicacies. The German liver Foundation points this out.
In addition to the holiday meal, people lack exercise during the Christmas season. in addition, there is increased alcohol consumption. This combination frequently enough leads to weight gain – and this also increases the risk of diseases such as fatty liver disease or metabolic syndrome.
What is metabolic syndrome? Metabolic syndrome is not an independent disease, but rather describes the joint occurrence of five risk factors: elevated blood sugar, obesity, high blood pressure, elevated triglycerides and elevated LDL cholesterol. Even individually, these symptoms can damage the body. But if they appear together, it becomes especially perilous.
The liver is considered a central metabolic organ and fulfills vital tasks. Weighing between 1.4 and 1.8 kilograms,it is the heaviest internal organ in the body. Almost 2,000 liters of blood are pumped through the liver every day. It detoxifies the body of harmful substances, such as alcohol or medications, and produces bile, which is necessary for the digestion of fats. A healthy liver is therefore meaningful for general health.
“Advent and the holidays are a stress and risk factor for the liver.”It suffers from eating too much sweet, fatty and alcoholic food,” explains michael P. Manns, CEO of the German Liver Foundation, in a press release. In order to make the Advent season still gentle on the liver, the German Liver Foundation gives tips:
Even if it’s tough to eat Christmas treats, you should pay attention to the quantity when snacking. Smaller portions put less strain on the liver. Low-fat versions of the classic Christmas meal are also good for the body. So instead of reaching for Christmas goose, you could serve lower-fat alternatives such as turkey breast or salmon this year.
Any alcohol consumption is harmful to the liver. It is therefore always advisable – but also during the holidays – to have alcohol-free days and to use non-alcoholic drinks such as punch or tea. The general rule is: Drinking plenty of water promotes metabolism and supports the liver.
Sufficient exercise is essential for a healthy liver. Even short exercise sessions,such as a short walk after eating or some exercise,can help stimulate your metabolism and burn off excess calories.
The German liver Aid points out that these tips are not only important for the Christmas season, but should be followed all year round for good liver health.
how can I maintain a healthy liver during the festive season?
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Liver Health Expert
Editor: Welcome, everyone, to another edition of our Time.news interviews. Today, we’re diving into a topic that affects many of us during the festive season: liver health. joining me is Dr. Sarah Lindgren, a hepatologist and expert in liver health. Dr. Lindgren, thank you for being here!
Dr. Lindgren: Thank you for having me! I’m excited to discuss this important topic—especially as we approach the holiday season.
Editor: Absolutely! Advent is often associated with rich foods, festive drinks, and maybe a few too many treats. How do these holiday indulgences impact our liver health?
Dr. Lindgren: Great question. The liver is incredibly resilient,but it’s also working hard during this time. Increased consumption of fatty foods, sugary treats, and alcohol can put significant strain on the liver. It has to process all these substances, and when we overload it, we can impair its function.
Editor: That sounds concerning. What should people be aware of in terms of specific foods or behaviors during this season?
Dr. Lindgren: Well, it’s essential to recognize that snacking is a big part of Christmas festivities. Though,moderation is key. Foods that are high in sugar and fat can lead to liver fat accumulation, resulting in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. It’s also crucial to watch alcohol consumption, as binge drinking can have acute effects on liver health.
Editor: So what are some tips you would give to ensure our liver stays healthy throughout this festive season?
Dr. Lindgren: I recommend a few strategies: Frist, balance indulgence with healthier options. Incorporate fruits and vegetables into your meals and snacks. Secondly, stay hydrated and consider alternating alcoholic drinks with water. Lastly, it’s essential to give your liver a break—perhaps designate a few alcohol-free days during the holiday celebrations.
editor: Those are practical tips! What about stress? The holiday season can be overwhelmingly busy. Can stress impact liver health too?
Dr. Lindgren: Absolutely! Stress can lead to poor eating habits and increased alcohol consumption,which directly affects liver health.It’s essential to manage stress through self-care practices such as exercise, meditation, or simply taking time for oneself to relax amidst the holiday hustle.
Editor: It certainly sounds like a balancing act. If someone starts noticing symptoms like fatigue or abdominal discomfort after the holidays, when should they seek medical advice?
Dr. Lindgren: If symptoms persist, it’s vital to consult a healthcare professional. Early detection of liver issues can make a substantial difference in treatment options and outcomes. It’s always better to err on the side of caution with health concerns.
Editor: thank you, Dr. Lindgren, for sharing your insights today. Any final thoughts for our readers as they navigate this festive season?
Dr. Lindgren: I’d like to remind everyone that enjoying the holiday season is important, but so is taking care of your health. Make conscious choices, listen to your body, and don’t forget to enjoy the little things without overdoing it. Happy holidays!
Editor: Happy holidays, indeed! Thank you for joining us, and thank you to our readers for tuning in. Here’s to a festive but liver-amiable Christmas!