In the early stages of fatty liver disease, the level of the NOX4 protein, which protects the organ, increases, but then it the content drops, which leads to serious consequences that are life-threatening. Medicines targeting the NOX4 protein can prevent them. The study was published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation (JCI).
In a new study, scientists have uncovered why some people remain relatively healthy despite high levels of liver fat, while others' lives are at risk.
Biologists have found that deleting the NOX4 protein in obese mice leads to steatohepatitis and damage. liver. On the contrary, artificially increasing the level of this protein protected the liver.
It turns out that NOX4 levels increase when the liver first begins to store fat and activates a complex program to protect itself. Only when NOX4 levels decrease and this adaptive program collapses do patients develop steatohepatitis.
Compounds that increase NOX4 activity are naturally found in cruciferous vegetables:broccoli or cauliflower.< br>
Don't put off taking care of your liver
“When the liver becomes hard and scarred, we call it cirrhosis. This means the liver can't filter properly, leading to a buildup of byproducts in the body.” – says hepatologist Alla Yuzhnova specially for MedicForum.
Symptoms associated with the liver include:
- < li>Yellow skin (jaundice)
- Yellowing of the whites of the eyes
- Itchy skin
- Stomach pain, nausea or vomiting
- Fatigue
- Swollen ankles, legs, or abdomen
- Weight loss
- Dark urine
- Stool that is pale, bloody, or very dark.
“If you have any of these symptoms, tell your healthcare provider.”
Your Key to a Healthy Liver
A healthy liver starts with exercise, drinking, says Yuzhnova and proper nutrition.
Exercise
A daily walk will clear your head and improve liver function.
“People who exercise regularly have less liver fat.”
Stay Hydrated
“Your liver functions best when you drink plenty of water.”
Eat a balanced diet
“The best diet for your liver includes grains, fruits, vegetables, meats, beans, milk and butter.”
Focus on high-fiber foods such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains; Limit foods high in sugar, salt and saturated fat, especially processed and fast foods.
Avoid foodborne illness
Be aware of foodborne illnesses that can cause liver damage, and avoid foods such as raw or undercooked seafood. Eating poorly washed raw vegetables that have been contaminated can also lead to liver problems.
Get an annual physical and blood test
Get regular checkups with your primary care physician are key to overall health.
“Blood tests, including liver function testing, can help your doctor detect liver problems earlier.”
If you are 18 years of age or older, you should also get a blood test for hepatitis C.
Avoid substances that damage your liver
You can overload your liver by taking in too many toxins . Large amounts of acetaminophen. Be careful with medications, both prescribed and over-the-counter.
“It's a good idea to talk to your doctor about medications and supplements, as well as proper doses,” she says.
Drinking too much alcohol can harm your liver. The harmful amount varies depending on age, gender, weight and many other factors.
MedicForum previously wrote about foods that cause cancer.
Important! Information is provided for reference purposes. Ask a specialist about contraindications and side effects and under no circumstances self-medicate. At the first signs of illness, consult a doctor.