Have you ever wondered how our liver changes as we get older?
Liver is one of the main organs that suffers a functional decline gradually as you grow old. Liver health and ageing affects the liver’s functional capacity, and studies show that people between the age of 40-50 years are more prone to serious liver diseases.
Dr Preeti Chhabria, consultant and director of the internal medicine department at Sir H.N. reliance foundation hospital and research centre, Mumbai, says, there are no specific liver diseases exclusive to older age groups, however, the liver is more susceptible to injury in the elderly. Chronic illnesses like hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and fatty liver can become more intense in older individuals later.
The liver’s capacity to metabolise drugs and perform its function reduces gradually with age. Some medications do not dissolve as quickly in the elderly as they do in the young. As a result, a drug dose that would not cause side effects in younger persons may have side effects in older people.
Professor Dr Neelamekam Thoppa Kapali, HOD- gastroenterology and liver transplant surgeon, Fortis Malar Hospital, Chennai highlights that in older adults the regeneration of liver tissues occur at a much slower pace than young people due to arterial blockages. Dr Kapali mentions that reduced blood supply with age can influence the regeneration process.
9 ways to protect liver health in older adults
Here are a few precautions to keep in mind as we age to make sure the liver is healthy.
1. Avoid herbal supplements
“Herbal medication has a huge impact on the liver”, says Dr Chhabria. Older adults often take herbal medications and supplements for small health issues, assuming they are safe. However, many of the herbal medications are coated with heavy metal that puts a huge toll on the liver and result in abnormal liver function tests, adds Chhabria.
“They should be taken with a lot of caution”, she advises.
Several studies show that herbal dietary supplement (HDS) induced liver injury has been increased worldwide. Consequently, leading to hepatotoxicity and severe liver conditions such as liver failure.
2. Limit alcohol consumption
People should be cautious about the volume of alcohol consumed at a time, says Dr Chhabria. Alcohol is metabolized by the liver, and even moderate alcohol intake can have a significant impact on liver health. “It’s important to stay within safe limits to avoid overburdening the liver” she adds.
It’s recommended to moderate alcohol consumption. Adult males should not consume more than two drinks at a time, and adult females should limit themselves to one drink. These numbers may be further reduced for those with fatty liver or chronic liver disease, she cautions.
Binge drinking and heavy smoking should be avoided, says Dr Kapali.
3. Consume a balanced diet and maintain healthy weight
Dr Chhabria recommends consuming a balanced diet with the focus on avoiding high-fat diets and excessive alcohol consumption. Over-the-counter pain medications should be used cautiously. Maintaining a healthy weight is important, as excess fat contributes to liver damage, she adds.
One should opt for liver friendly foods that contain antioxidants to promote liver health in older adults and boost immunity.
Dr Kapali recommends avoiding excessive alcohol consumption and heavy smoking, both of which can harm the liver. He adds, intermittent fasting is good for liver health. A review article shows that intermittent fasting is beneficial for weight management and liver enzyme improvement. Vegetable or fruit juice can be taken while doing intermittent fasting.
He continues, berries contain antioxidants called polyphenols that may protect the liver from damage, and antioxidants found in coffee provide protective benefits for the liver. Experts suggest black coffee reduces the risk of liver complications.
4. Avoid self-medication and dietary supplements
Dr Chhabria says, older individuals often have one or more chronic health conditions at the same time and take various medications. The interactions between these drugs can put a strain on the liver’s ability to metabolize them.
She recommends revisiting every medicine and checking whether it’s required to consume the medication.
Dr Kapali advises to avoid unnecessary supplementation. Certain medications, including herbal and dietary supplements, can have varying effects on the liver. Dr Kapali suggests that elderly people should be cautious when using medications without proper medical guidance. Consumption of more than 4 grams of paracetamol a day, i.e., overdose of the drug can lead to liver complication, he adds.
He emphasizes on filling your required nutrition from a balanced diet as it typically provides the nutrients required to maintain liver health in older adults and avoid any dietary supplements unless it’s prescribed by the doctor. Those who are immunocompromised, who have undergone a surgery, or any medical issue, they are generally required or prescribed additional dietary supplement.
5. Regular health screening
Liver functions tests are performed to check for any abnormalities in the liver. According to Dr Chhabria, regular liver function tests should be part of an annual checkup or customized based on individual needs.
Dr Kapali says, unless specific symptoms show, such as fatigue, pain, or jaundice, routine liver function tests are not typically necessary for healthy elderly individuals. However, regular health screenings help identify potential issues early and allow for timely intervention.
6. Adopt active lifestyle
Dr Kapali recommends simple exercises, such as walking for about 20 minutes, or yoga for good metabolism. Engaging in regular physical activity can help maintain overall health and support liver function.
7. Keep yourself hydrated
“Drinking water and consuming hydrating beverages supports the liver’s detoxification process”, says Dr Kapali. Fruits and vegetable juices, and even intermittent fasting can help eliminate toxins and maintain liver health in older adults, he adds.
8. Be aware of symptoms
Majority of liver disease in the early stages have no symptoms or are asymptomatic, and may easily go undiagnosed, says Dr Chhabria. However, if older adults show any symptoms, such as fatigue, bloating, or jaundice, itching then its recommended to consult the doctor, she adds.
9. Don’t skip your vaccines and keep your immunity strong
“Make sure you are up to date with all immunizations and vaccinations that help to keep in you good health” recommends Dr Preeti. The idea is that these vaccinations can help prevent liver disease and lessen the severity of illnesses like hepatitis A and B.
Takeaway
Older adults need to be very cautious and avoid self-medication and protect the liver by incorporating regular exercise, good food hygiene, and limiting alcohol consumption in their daily lives.
