January Love Your Liver Month

The liver is the largest organ inside the body (skin is the largest organ) and boasts more than 500 functions, from combating infection to turning food into energy, cleaning the blood and destroying toxins.

You may be thinking more about your health in January, New Year, new you right? But how many of us really know how to look after our liver. Saltash People has put together a few tips below for 'Love Your Liver Month'.

Lose the Detox:

Contrary to popular belief, a January detox does no good after the excess of the Christmas period. Dr Cramp a liver specialist from Derriford Hospital said: "January detox is pointless and a complete waste of time. A short burst of abstinence will do nothing to improve liver health in the long-term. Abstinence of alcohol at least a couple of times a week is far better for the long term health of your liver." A normal healthy liver can rejuvenate surprisingly quickly, and can repair any damage within just 24 hours.

No Binge Drinking:

Even if you abstain from drinking for a couple of days it does not mean that you can collect points and binge the next day or on the weekend – this is the worst thing for your liver.

Control your Weight:

If you drink heavily and are overweight you are three times more likely to develop liver disease. Obesity with liver disease is on the increase and affecting far younger people than ever before.

Get Active:

Health professionals have often said that just 30 minutes exercise, three times a week, can have enormous benefits to your health.

For more information about how to look after your liver check out the Love Your Liver website.