A limited intake of turmeric may be beneficial in liver diseases, as the curcumin present in it is an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. However, in severe conditions like cirrhosis, hepatitis, or liver failure, a higher quantity of turmeric can be harmful. Therefore, it is advised to include it in food only in small amounts.
Turmeric in Liver Diseases: Experts have clarified regarding the diet of liver patients that consuming turmeric in limited quantities is beneficial, but excessive amounts can be harmful. According to Professor Dr. Subhash Giri, HOD of the Medicine Department at RML Hospital, Delhi, curcumin present in turmeric helps protect the liver from inflammation and improves its functioning. However, in serious diseases like liver cirrhosis, hepatitis, or liver failure, its excessive consumption can prove dangerous. Experts consider a balanced diet, adequate water intake, and regular exercise to be most crucial for liver health.
Liver Diseases and Their Causes
There are several reasons behind liver dysfunction. The biggest cause among these is excessive alcohol consumption. Additionally, continuous consumption of junk food, oily and spicy food, obesity, prolonged use of medications, and hepatitis viruses can also weaken the liver. Hormonal imbalances and unhealthy lifestyle habits, such as insufficient sleep and lack of physical activity, can also worsen its condition.
When the liver is affected, the most common diseases are fatty liver, hepatitis, cirrhosis, and liver failure. In fatty liver, fat starts accumulating in the liver cells, affecting its function. Hepatitis is caused by viral infection, which leads to inflammation and damage in the liver. In cirrhosis, healthy cells gradually get destroyed, and the liver's capacity reduces. In the case of liver failure, this organ completely ceases to function.
Symptoms of these diseases include persistent fatigue, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, yellowing of the body and eyes, swelling, and digestive problems. If not treated on time, toxic substances can accumulate in the body, affecting the brain and other organs as well.
Should Liver Patients Consume Turmeric
Turmeric is an essential part of Indian cuisine and is also considered a natural remedy. It contains a compound called curcumin, which acts as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. Professor Dr. Subhash Giri, HOD of the Medicine Department at RML Hospital, Delhi, states that consuming turmeric in limited quantities can help maintain liver health to some extent.
He says that the compounds in turmeric help in removing harmful substances from the body and fighting infections. However, it is beneficial only when taken in limited amounts. Adding turmeric to everyday food like vegetables or drinking milk with a pinch of turmeric is considered safe.
When Turmeric Can Be Harmful
According to Dr. Subhash, if there are severe liver diseases, such as cirrhosis, hepatitis, or liver failure, excessive consumption of turmeric can be harmful. Especially consuming turmeric in large quantities in the form of supplements or powder can be dangerous. Doing so can put additional strain on the liver and affect its functioning. Therefore, turmeric supplements should not be consumed without medical advice.
What to Eat to Keep the Liver Healthy
A balanced diet is very important for maintaining liver health. Green leafy vegetables, oats, barley, brown rice, and fruits are fibrous foods that help in keeping the liver clean. Additionally, eggs, fish, lentils, and peanuts are good sources of protein, which strengthen the liver.
Dr. Subhash says that people with a weak liver should completely avoid alcohol and oily food. Along with this, drinking an adequate amount of water is also necessary so that harmful substances can be easily flushed out of the body.
