How to manage and调理 (regulate/nurture) the liver when it's not functioning well
Jul 14, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Jiang Weimin
Introduction
In general, poor liver health can be improved by avoiding late-night snacks, maintaining a regular daily routine, and abstaining from alcohol. Ideally, dinner should be consumed about three hours before bedtime. Going to sleep immediately after a heavy late-night meal or drinking alcohol forces the liver to remain fully active during sleep instead of resting, which impairs its metabolic and detoxification functions.
Generally, poor liver health can be managed by avoiding late-night snacks, maintaining a regular daily routine, abstaining from alcohol, and other such measures. The details are as follows:
1. Avoid Late-Night Snacks
In general, it's ideal to have dinner at least three hours before bedtime. Going to sleep immediately after a heavy late-night meal or drinking alcohol forces the liver to remain fully active during sleep, depriving it of necessary rest and impairing its metabolic and detoxification functions. If eating late at night is unavoidable, meals should be kept light—such as a cup of warm milk—to minimize the burden on the liver.
2. Maintain a Regular Daily Routine
Improving lifestyle habits is essential. Ensure adequate daily sleep and avoid frequent late nights so that the liver can rest sufficiently. This enhances liver function, improves metabolism and detoxification capacity, promotes smoother overall bodily functions, and may even help resolve oral health issues.
3. Abstain from Alcohol
Alcohol is metabolized in the liver and can disrupt and damage the normal enzyme systems within liver cells, directly harming them and potentially leading to hepatocyte necrosis.
Besides the above, liver health can also be supported by quitting smoking, eating more fruits and vegetables, and minimizing medication use whenever possible. Patients with liver problems are advised to consult a doctor and may consider using medications such as Hepatoprotective Tablets or Chaihu Shugan Pills under medical guidance.
