4. Salt: Excess Sodium and Liver Health
A high-sodium diet can negatively impact liver health, primarily by contributing to fluid retention and increased blood pressure. Elevated blood pressure can lead to portal hypertension, a condition in which the blood flow through the liver becomes obstructed, causing liver damage over time.
Many processed and pre-packaged foods are high in sodium, making it easy to exceed the recommended daily intake without realizing it. To protect your liver, focus on consuming whole, unprocessed foods and cooking at home, where you have control over the amount of salt used in your meals.
When shopping, pay close attention to food labels and choose low-sodium options whenever possible. Also, consider using herbs and spices to flavor your dishes instead of relying on salt. This can help you reduce sodium intake while still enjoying tasty, satisfying meals.
It’s important to remember that maintaining a healthy lifestyle overall is crucial for liver health. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and proper hydration can all help support your liver and prevent damage from excessive salt consumption. (4)
