Liver health: Recognizing silent symptoms and supportive habits

Liver diseases often progress silently for years due to the organ's high capacity for regeneration and reserve. Medical experts, including gastroenterologist Lilian Curvelo from Einstein Hospital Israelita, note that symptoms are often non-specific and should be evaluated within a person's clinical context.

Common warning signs include persistent fatigue, which may result from inflammation or fibrosis affecting energy metabolism. Other indicators include increased abdominal fat—a marker of metabolic risk associated with insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes—and skin changes such as persistent itching, dryness, redness in the palms, or dark patches on the neck and armpits (acanthosis nigricans). Advanced complications like hepatic encephalopathy may cause confusion, memory lapses, and irritability.

While no specific beverage can eliminate accumulated fat, certain drinks can support a healthy diet. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), options like water, unsweetened black coffee, and green or black tea may complement liver health. Other supportive choices include ginger or cinnamon infusions and chia seed water. However, medical professionals emphasize that these should not replace medical treatment. Fundamental management strategies include maintaining a healthy weight, regular physical activity, and reducing ultra-processed food consumption.