Alcoholic Liver Disease Tips

In healthy individuals, the liver contains little or no fat. In overweight or obese people, gradual fat accumulation leads to significant liver disease. Interestingly, these individuals may be consuming minimal to no alcohol. So, alcohol, which is the main cause of liver damage, does not have a significant role to play.

The non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has 4 significant stages as outlined below. It is a chronically progressive disease and may take years to reach the final stages of cirrhosis and fibrosis.

1. Simple fatty liver (steatosis): This is usually identified when diagnostic tests are done for some other suspected conditions. There are usually no symptoms obvious in this stage, other than the buildup of fat in the liver.

2. Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH): The second stage where the liver is inflamed to a greater extent due to fat accumulation.

3. Fibrosis: The next degree of inflammation where blood vessels may be narrowed leading to scarring in the liver with impaired liver functions.

4. Cirrhosis: This is the most severe stage that occurs due to years of cumulative inflammation. The liver shrinks in size is scarred, and liver functions are markedly impaired and can also result in liver cancer.

Risk factors for NAFLD: The exact reason why a person develops NAFLD is not established, but some of the risk factors include

1. Obesity, with more weight concentrated around the abdomen

2. Type 2 diabetes

3. High blood pressure

4. High cholesterol levels

5. Age greater than 50

6. Smoking

Symptoms: This will depend on the stage in which it is identified. While there are no symptoms in the early stages, in some people there could be dull, aching below the ribs, unexplained weight loss, weakness, and extreme tiredness. As it progresses to cirrhosis, there could be jaundice, fluid accumulation in the abdomen and feet, and itching of the skin.

Management: While there is no treatment aimed at curing the disease per se, there are ways to manage the symptoms, as noted below.

1. Weight loss: Reducing excess accumulated fat will help reverse symptoms and prevent further progression of the disease. A BMI of 18 to 26 is considered optimal.

2. Dietary changes: Modify your diet to complex carbohydrates and protein-rich and reduced fats and sugars. Increasing fiber through fruits and vegetables is highly recommended.

3. Exercise: Whatever your choice of workout, it will do wonders for NAFLD. Keep a target of an hour or two of moderate to intense exercise per day to reduce weight.

4. Smoking: This is another risk factor and can also help prevent other effects of NAFLD such as diabetes and heart disease.

NAFLD is highly controllable with these changes and other damages can be reversed too.

The term cirrhosis refers to liver scarring due to various diseases and conditions such as chronic alcoholism and hepatitis. Each time the liver gets injured, it tries to repair itself, resulting in the formation of the scar tissue. With the progression of cirrhosis, a number of tissues generate making the task of liver difficult. Since the liver is an important organ of the body due to its functionalities such as detoxification and nutrient generation, reduced function of liver poses a serious threat to the body.

Symptoms of liver cirrhosis:

Unfortunately, cirrhosis doesn’t portray any conspicuous symptoms that can be easily identified until the scarring has reached a level of threat. Some of the common signs and symptoms of this disease include fatigue, nausea, itchy skin, drowsiness, enlarged breasts, testicular atrophy, fluid in the abdomen, bleedingfrom the mouth, leg swelling, redness in palms etc.

Causes of liver cirrhosis:

There could be an array of reasons for the occurrence of liver cirrhosis. The major causes include an accumulation of fat in the liver, chronic alcoholism and chronic hepatitis. Some of the other reasons include cystic fibrosis, bile duct deformation, Wilson’s disease, hemochromatosis, schistosomiasis, continuous consumption of medicines such as methotrexate, a disease involving glycogen storage and Aalagille syndrome.

Complications involved in liver Cirrhosis:

1. High blood pressure: Cirrhosis results in slow blood movement through the passage of the liver resulting in an increased pressure on the vein that is responsible for carrying blood from the intestine to the liver. This increases the blood pressure in the body.
2. Swelling of abdomen and legs: Portal hypertension can result in accumulation of fluid in the leg and the abdomen due to the liver’s inability to producing an important protein known as the albumin.
3. Spleen enlargement: Portal hypertension is responsible for changing the shape of the spleen. Decreased count of WBC and the platelets indicate towards portal hypertension and cirrhosis.
4. Bleeding: Portal hypertension doesn’t let the blood flow in its normal path. It directs the blood to flow through smaller veins. The veins, in turn, swell and burst to cause a massive amount of bleeding.

Apart from these some of the other complications involve jaundice, liver cancer, infections, bone diseases and liver failure.

Diagnosis:

Liver cirrhosis doesn’t get detected easily. It is often diagnosed with a routine blood test. Some of the lab tests that can help to identify cirrhosis include blood work to check organ function of liver and kidney. Your doctor might suggest other tests such as MRI scan, CT scan or liver biopsy.

Treatment:

Treatment for the underlying cause of liver cirrhosis is done to keep the disease under control. A doctor might treat you for weight loss, alcohol dependency, complications related to hepatitis, portal hypertension and hepatic encephalopathy. For advanced cases where the liver stops functioning, a doctor might suggest a patient go for a liver transplant.

A number of health problems today are caused by an unhealthy lifestyle. One such condition is a fatty liver or collection of fat in the liver. The buildup of fats in the liver is known as Fatty Liver. The liver processes everything that you eat or drink and filters harmful substances from the blood. If too much fat has accumulated in the liver, this process gets interfered with. These fat cells cause inflammation of the liver tissues which in time can lead to scarring and liver fibrosis. On its own, a fatty liver is relatively harmless but when it reaches this stage, it can be life threatening.

The reasons for Fatty Liver can be alcoholism, incorrect diet, obesity, diabetes, or even excess use of medication.

If ignored or left untreated, many liver diseases will lead to permanent and irreversible damage to the liver and can be a significant threat to your health. But, there is no standard form of treatment for a fatty liver. If diagnosed in its early stages, treating the underlying cause can stop the progression of the disease and even resolve it. Homeopathy addresses the underlying causes of a disease and hence is an ideal form of treatment for a fatty liver. It can reduce the symptoms of this disease, improve liver functioning and even reverse the condition if treatment is started early.

The Homeopathic medicines, which are made of natural substances, are given to patients after studying the unique symptoms experienced by each individual. Homeopathy is one of the most popular holistic systems of medicine. The selection of remedy is based upon the theory of individualization and symptoms similarity by using holistic approach. Homoeopathy is very proficient in managing all the symptoms of Fatty liver disease and furthermore plays a vital role in preventing relapse of the condition. Some of the most common homeopathic medicines for fatty liver are-

1. Chelidonium: This is often used to treat a fatty liver accompanied by right upper abdominal pain. In such cases, the liver may be enlarged and the patient also usually suffers from constipation or experience nausea and vomiting. The patient will also probably suffer from excessive weakness and have a desire for hot food and drinks.

2. Lycopodium: A fatty liver accompanied by acidity can be treated with this type of homeopathic medication. In such cases, the patient will also complain of bloating and belching with a burning sensation. These symptoms tend to worsen n the evening and the patient may have an intense craving for sweets and hot drinks.

3. Phosphorus: This is used to treat cases of fatty acid which triggers regurgitation accompanied by sour belching. In some cases, the patient may also experience pain in the liver and excessive flatulence. Vomiting may also occur along with weakness while passing stool.

4. Calcarea carb: Obese patients suffering from this condition can be treated with calcarea carb. These people often have a distended abdomen, are lactose intolerant and suffer from chronic constipation. They are also overly sensitive to cold air and sweat excessively from the head.

5. Nux Vomica: homeopathic remedy for fatty liver with pain in abdomen after eating.

Nux vomica is great for any abdominal problem including fatty liver caused by excessive consumption of alcohol. These patients often suffer from abdominal pain a few hours after eating with sour or bitter tasting belches. They may constantly feel the urge to pass stool but are unable to do so.

Though homeopathic remedies have negligible side effects when taken in low dosages, they should never be self-prescribed. If you suffer from a fatty liver, consult a homeopathic doctor immediately who can diagnose it properly and treat you accordingly.  

The liver performs over 500 functions and is considered to be one of the most important organs in the human body. The functions liver perform include regulating cholesterol and blood sugar, filtering out blood toxins, storing energy and making hormones and proteins. There are many diseases which the liver can catch and most prominent being alcoholic liver disease

When a person consumes alcohol in excess, it leads to building up of fats, inflammation and scarring of the liver – which results in alcoholic liver disease.

The damage that occurs due to this disease in the liver can affect the whole body. Since the liver is generally highly effective in repairing and regenerating itself so the damage takes longer to come into notice. It often becomes distinctive by the time the damage is already irreversible.

This disease usually takes place in people between 40 and 50 years of age. This disease is most commonly seen in men. Certain cases have been seen where people may have inherited the risk for the disease.

Liver disease related to alcohol consumption fits into following 1 of 3 categories:

1. Fatty liver: This takes place due to the acute consumption of alcohol. This state is generally reversible if alcohol isn’t consumed.
2. Alcoholic hepatitis: This is an acute type of alcohol-induced liver injury which takes place when alcohol is consumed excessively over a long period of time. It can lead to liver failure and death as well.
3. Cirrhosis: Cirrhosis is a late stage of scarring (fibrosis) of the liver caused by over consumptions of alcohol. It can also occur due to other reasons as well.

Some Facts about Alcoholic Liver Disease

1. It is the main cause of chronic liver disease in Western nations and the third most common cause of liver transplants.
2. Staying away from alcohol is the only way for the patient’s recovery.
3. Jaundice and tremors are the most common symptoms of this disease.
4. Medication, lifestyle changes, and surgery are some available treatments.

Early signs of the Disease
The early signs of alcoholic liver disease are not much noticeable and affect many systems in the body.

1. Pain in the abdomen
2. Nausea and vomiting
3. Diarrhea
4. Decreased appetite

If these signs are left unattended and the patient continues to consume alcohol, it can lead to faster damage to the liver.

The symptoms of this disease become noticeable usually during the later stage of liver disease. The symptoms of this disease include:

1. Jaundice
2. Edema or swelling of the lower limbs
3. A build-up of fluid in the abdomen, known as ascites
4. Fever and shivering
5. Extremely itchy skin
6. Clubbing of fingernails
7. Loss of weight
8. General weakness
9. Blood in vomit and stools
10. Bleeding and bruising more easily
11. More sensitive reactions to alcohol and drugs

In most patients with alcoholic liver disease, the illness is not severe. You may not require hospitalization immediately as long as you take necessary precaution like stopping the consumption of alcohol, take good nutrition and follow the advice of the doctor. However, in more severe cases, the doctor may be able to suggest the best line of treatment.

It is a slowly and gradually progressing disease in which healthy liver tissue is replaced with scar tissue, hence preventing the liver from proper functioning. The developed scar tissue blocks the flow of blood through the liver and slows the processing of nutrients, hormones, drugs, and naturally produced toxins. It also slows the production of proteins and other substances made by the liver. Cirrhosis is a complication of liver disease which involves loss of liver cells and irreversible scarring of the liver. In other words, Cirrhosis is a condition in which the liver does not function properly due to long-term damage. Typically, the disease comes over months or years.

Although there are many other causes for cirrhosis, the commonest is excessive use of alcohol, viral hepatitis B and C infections and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Thus the scarring is most often caused by long-term exposure to toxins such as alcohol or viral infections.

According to the National Institutes of Health, it is the 12th leading cause of death. Men are more prone to develop cirrhosis than women. Globally approximately 57% of cirrhosis is attributable to either hepatitis B (30%) or hepatitis C (27%).Alcohol consumption accounting for about 20% of cirrhosis.

Persons most commonly affected: Adults of both sexes.

Unani approach to Cirrhosis of Liver (Talayyuf-e- Kabid)-

In Unani literature Cirrhosis of the liver is known as “Talayyuf-e- kabid”, “Sighr-al- kabid” or “Jigarki laghari”. It is of two types.

1. AcuteType of Cirrhosis of Liver (Talayyuf-e- Kabid Hadd)-

It is rare but very dangerous. It is also called Yarqaan-e- khabees or Huzaal-e- asfar. Mainly occurs due to inflammation in hepatic cells, in which hepatic cells squeeze in few days resulting in improper functioning of liver. It is a disease in which cells throughout the liver are destroyed. Although they are replaced by areas containing normal new cells but also by much scar tissue, which alters the structure of the liver.

Causes and risk factors: Excessive use of alcohol/ chronic alcoholism, poor nutrition, highly toxic condition of the body system, viral infections caused by chronic viral hepatitis (types A, B and C), metabolic diseases such as alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency, galactosemia and glycogen storage disorders,inherited diseases such as Wilson's disease and hemochromatosis, biliary cirrhosis, toxic hepatitis due to severe reactions to prescription drugs or prolonged exposure to environmental toxins and repeated bouts of heart failure with liver congestion etc.

Signs and Symptoms: The main signs and symptoms of this type are jaundice, pain at the site of liver, vomiting, headache, dizziness, increased body temperature, increased pulse rate, brownish coloured and dry tongue, increased thirst, initially whitish coloured diarrhoea, later on, colour becomes blackish due to contamination of blood, urine passes in less quantity and reddish in colour due to contamination of yellow bile in it,  haemorrhage from nose, stomach, intestine and uterus even abortion in women are seen. The size of the liver feels small on palpation.

2. Chronic type of Cirrhosis of Liver (Talayyuf-e- KabidMuzmin)

This type of the disease occurs due to the improper blood supply to the hepatic cells resulting in the size of liver very small in appearance but liver cells stay normal.

Causes and risk factors: The main causes of this type are the application of permanent pressure at the site of the liver such as ascites, alcohol abuse, hepatitis C virus infection, cardiomegaly, poor nutrition, highly toxic condition of the body system, peritoneal inflammation, improper diet in old age and starvation etc. Other causes which develop this disease are, obstruction of the external bile duct by stone, scar, inborn defect or tumour, use of certain medications, syphilis and passive liver congestion. Obesity has recently been recognized as a risk factor in non-alcoholic hepatitis and cirrhosis.

Signs and Symptoms: It is a slowly progressing disease. In early-stage symptoms, of indigestion like flatulence, constipation and diarrhoea may be present. General weakness, the feeling of being unwell, loss of appetite, loss of weight, and a loss of interest in sex may also be there. There may be a dull abdominal ache, nausea and vomiting. Eventually, the patient dies due to anaemia or ascites. The feeling of dullness is the peculiar sign of the disease. Other symptoms and signs include low-grade fever, bad breath, jaundiced skin and bloated and swollen abdomen.

Complications and Risks associated with Cirrhosis of Liver (Talayyuf-e-Kabid)-

Ascites (retention of fluid in the abdominal cavity) is the most common complication of cirrhosis and is associated with a poor quality of life, increased risk of infection and a poor long-term outcome. Other potentially life-threatening complications are hepatic encephalopathy (confusion and coma) and bleeding from oesophageal varices. Cirrhosis is generally irreversible, and treatment usually focuses on preventing progression and complications. In advanced stages of cirrhosis, the only option is a liver transplant.

Preventive measures for cirrhotic patients (Talayyuf-e- Kabid ke Mareezon ke liye Ehtiyaati Tadaabir):

• Cirrhotic patients must completely avoid alcohol. Alcohol accelerates liver failure and hastens death in cirrhotic patients.
• Avoid liver toxins. Acetaminophen (Tylenol), should be avoided because they can be toxic in cirrhotic patients.
• Juice therapy helps the liver to detoxify toxins from the body. Cirrhotic patients should mix one part of pure juice with one part of water before drinking.
• Cirrhotic patients are strongly advised to eat smaller meals. To avoid overworking the liver, five or six smaller, lighter meals per day are recommended.
• Avoid fatty foods and processed foods, especially foods prepared with animal fats or hydrogenated oils. These types of foods put additional load on the liver.
• Cirrhotic patients are also advised to eat only lean proteins (containing no fats) and in limited amounts.
• Vegetable proteins are very beneficial in Cirrhotic patients. High protein intake causes increases of ammonia levels in the blood, possibly resulting in mental confusion, and in severe cases, coma. However, do not severely limit protein intake, as this may cause protein deficiency and impair the healing process.
• Routinely increase consumption of fruits and steamed vegetables as fruits and vegetables are easy to digest, thus less work for the liver. In addition, they are good sources of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help the liver detoxify and heal.
• Cirrhotic patients are advised to practice intermittent fasting.
• They are also advised to protect against hepatitis B, C and E.

Fundamentals of Management in Unani Medicine-

• Identify the cause of the disease and treat it accordingly
• Correct the digestive processes
• Use hot dresses
• Use mild and early digestible diet
• In case of ascites treat it

Management/ Treatment-

In Unani medicine, very effective treatment is available for the Cirrhosis of Liver by strengthening the Liver cells and restoring normal size and functions of the Liver. In Unani medicine, there is a number of hepatoprotective drugs that protect the Liver either acute or chronic type.

• SootshekharRas Swarna yukta 125 Mg twice a day
• PittariAvleh 10 gm twice a Day

Duration of the treatment: 3 to 6 months or it depends upon the condition of the patients. If the patients with cirrhosis have diabetes, then the treatment may take long time for curing the disease. Diet plays a key role along with Unani Medicines. Hence, it is strictly advised to follow a proper diet plan.

In healthy individuals, the liver contains little or no fat. In overweight or obese people, gradual fat accumulation leads to significant liver disease. Interestingly, these individuals may be consuming minimal to no alcohol. So, alcohol, which is the main cause of liver damage, does not have a significant role to play.

The non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has 4 significant stages as outlined below. It is a chronically progressive disease and may take years to reach the final stages of cirrhosis and fibrosis.

1. Simple fatty liver (steatosis): This is usually identified when diagnostic tests are done for some other suspected conditions. There are usually no symptoms obvious in this stage, other than the buildup of fat in the liver.

2. Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH): The second stage where the liver is inflamed to a greater extent due to fat accumulation.

3. Fibrosis: The next degree of inflammation where blood vessels may be narrowed leading to scarring in the liver with impaired liver functions.

4. Cirrhosis: This is the most severe stage that occurs due to years of cumulative inflammation. The liver shrinks in size is scarred, and liver functions are markedly impaired and can also result in liver cancer.

Risk factors for NAFLD: The exact reason why a person develops NAFLD is not established, but some of the risk factors include-

1. Obesity, with more weight concentrated around the abdomen

2. Type 2 diabetes

3. High blood pressure

4. High cholesterol levels

5. Age greater than 50

6. Smoking

Symptoms: This will depend on the stage in which it is identified. While there are no symptoms in the early stages, in some people there could be a dull, aching below the ribs, unexplained weight loss, weakness, and extreme tiredness. As it progresses to cirrhosis, there could be jaundice, fluid accumulation in the abdomen and feet, and itching of the skin.

Management: While there is no treatment aimed at curing the disease per se, there are ways to manage the symptoms, as noted below.

1. Weight loss: Reducing excess accumulated fat will help reverse symptoms and prevent further progression of the disease. A BMI of 18 to 26 is considered optimal.

2. Dietary changes: Modify your diet to a carbohydrates and protein rich and reduced fats and sugars. Increasing fiber through fruits and vegetables is highly recommended.

3. Exercise: Whatever your choice of workout, it will do wonders for NAFLD. Keep a target of an hour or two of moderate to intense exercise per day to reduce weight.

4. Smoking: This is another risk factor and can also help prevent other effects of NAFLD such as diabetes and heart disease.

NAFLD is highly controllable with these changes and other damages can be reversed too.

The liver is the second largest organ in the human body. Everything that is consumed goes through the liver and gets metabolized. Generally, the liver consists of fat accumulation, in the range of 2%, but when it reaches close to 10%, the condition is termed as fatty liver. Progression of fatty liver can lead to cirrhosis and eventually liver failure. The liver has an amazing ability to regenerate itself if a part of it is damaged. 

However, if the damage is cumulative, then the repair becomes difficult. Another point to note is that the liver can be resected in parts to ensure that the non-affected liver continues to be available to take care of the metabolism.

Causes: There are two main types of fatty liver:

• Alcoholic fatty liver: This is the most common type and is seen in heavy drinkers.
• Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH): The causes for this type are not clear, but obesity, diabetes and hyperlipidemia are some causes for NASH.

Symptoms:

Fatty liver develops over years, and the symptoms are both vague and appear randomly. These can be attributed to any general illness, and so diagnosis is often delayed.

• Unexplained weight loss
• Jaundice
• Loss of appetite
• General malaise
• Dull pain in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen
• Overall physical weakness
• Ascites or fluid accumulation in the abdomen
• Increased tendency to bleed
• Abnormal liver enzyme levels

Diagnosis:

If suspected of fatty liver, the following are done to confirm the diagnosis.

1. Blood tests to check for liver enzyme levels.
2. Imaging studies including x-ray, CT and/or MRI scan
3. Biopsy to confirm the diagnosis

Treatment:

Fatty liver is a completely reversible condition. If a person with alcoholic fatty liver quits drinking for about 8 to 10 weeks, the damage can be totally reversed.

• If there is no history of alcoholism but obesity, then switching to a non-fatty diet with lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, multigrain, dairy products, etc. can help in controlling fat accumulation and use the stored fat. Increasing the levels of physical activity also helps in burning stored fat.
• As noted, the liver is capable of self-repair and self-regeneration, so if further triggers are stopped, it can heal itself.
• If fatty liver is not controlled, it can develop into cirrhosis and liver failure. If it reaches liver failure, then survival rates and prognosis look very gloomy.

Prevention:

Fatty liver disease can be prevented by controlling alcohol intake, adopting a healthy lifestyle, eating non-fatty and non-sugary products, and maintaining an active and healthy lifestyle.

Monitor health periodically to check on liver function, diabetes, and cholesterol levels.

Excess fat cells in the human body can settle under the skin and cause obesity, Additionally, they may even settle in specific organs and liver is one of them. When fat starts accumulating in the liver, a condition known as fatty liver manifests itself.
There are two types of fatty liver disease such as alcoholic and non-alcoholic. As the name suggests, the former is triggered by excessive alcohol consumption, whereas the latter takes place due to other reasons. While non-alcoholic fatty liver disease interferes with the normal functioning of the liver, alcoholic fatty liver disease has specific symptoms such as jaundice, fever, spider veins, and increase white blood cells (WBCs) count.

In the world of Ayurveda, the liver is a pitta organ, which is absolutely essential for normal digestion and elimination. Therefore, the pitta dosha should always be in balance so that toxins are eliminated by the liver from the body. A liver disease results when the pitta is aggravated, which can be treated with the help of lifestyle and dietary modifications, in addition to Ayurvedic remedies.

The following are some of the Ayurvedic tips and guidelines that can support liver healing and reduce the symptoms of fatty liver:

1. Avoid fatty and fried foods as these can further aggravate pitta and heating and overstimulating.
2. Incorporate cool and non-acidic food items such as berries, pears, mangoes, and melons into your diet.
3. Eat a combination of steamed vegetable and whole grains such as quinoa.
4. Incorporate ghee into your diet.
5. Consume aloe juice in moderate quantities as it is cooling.
6. Regularly consume a mixture of 2 grams of long pepper powder and 1 teaspoon honey once a day for complete 1 month.
7. Consume a decoction of giloy (Tinospora cordifolia), 30 ml, mixed with a teaspoon of honey once a day.
8. Drink plenty of water to cool the body down and eliminate toxins.
9. Consume 10 to 20 ml of bhumi amla juice.
10. Take 1 to 3 grams of kakuti powder twice a day with water after meals.
11. Use as much garlic as you can while preparing food at home. You can take 2 to 3 cloves of garlic on an empty stomach in the morning for a few days for relief.

शराब के सेवन से होने वाली समस्याओं और बिमारियों से हम सभी लगभग परिचित हैं. कई बार हमलोग अपने आसपास देखते हैं कि लोग शाब पीकर अपने घर परिवार के लोगों को काफी परेशान करते हैं. इस्तना ही नहीं कुछ लोग तो अपने पड़ोसियों से भी बदतमीजी से पेश आने लगते हैं. कई बार तो शराब पीने के कारण लड़ाइयाँ भी हो जाति हैं. कई लोग शराब पीकर सड़कों पर या नालियों में भी गीर पड़ते हैं. ये तो शराब पीने के प्रत्यक्ष नुकसान हैं जो कि तुरंत सामने दिख जात अहै. लेकिन शराब के सेवन से हमारे शरीर पर भी बहुत दुष्प्रभाव पड़ता है जिसका असर कुछ दिनों बाद दिखना शुरू होता है. लेकिन यदि आपने इसपर गौर नहीं क्या या शराब पीना नहीं छोड़ा तो मौत तक हो सकती है.

अगर सभी लोग, जो अल्कोहल का सेवन करते हैं वो एक दिन में एक ड्रिंक सीमित कर लें तो शायद किसी कार्डियोलॉजिस्ट, लिवर विशेषज्ञ और शराब का सेवन न करने की सलाह देने वालों की आवश्यकता नहीं होती. लेकिन जो कोई भी शराब पीता है, वह सिर्फ एक ड्रिंक पर ही रुक जाये ऐसा बहुत ही कम होता है. और गहरायी से देखा जाये तो अधिक मात्रा में शराब पीने से शरीर का बहुत नुकसान होता है. इससे लिवर सिरोसिस, लिवर में जलन और सूजन आदि समस्याएं पैदा हो सकती हैं, जो घातक बीमारियां होती हैं. अधिक अल्कोहल के सेवन से हाई बीपी की समस्या और हृदय मांसपेशियों को नुकसान पहुंच सकता है. इसके कारण मुंह के कैंसर, ग्रसनी, कंठनली, इसोफेगस, स्तन कैंसर और कोलोरेक्टल कैंसर होने का खतरा बढ़ता है. आइए शराब पीने के कारण उत्पन्न होने वाली समस्याओं को जानें.

लिवर, स्‍तन और गले का कैंसर होने की संभावना-
शराब में कैंसर पैदा करने वाले गुण होते हैं. स्‍टडीज़ में पाया गया है कि सीधे तौर पर कैंसर का खतरा पैदा करता है. आप इसको नियमित रूप से पियें या कभी कभार, यह सिर और गले, लिवर, स्तन और कोलोरेक्टल आदि कैंसर को बढ़ावा देती है.

शरीर में विटामिन बी-12 कम बनेगा-
B12 तंत्रिकाओं और रक्त कोशिकाओं को स्‍वस्‍थ रखने का काम करता है. यह ब्रेन, स्पाइनल कॉर्ड और न‌र्व्स के कुछ तत्वों की रचना में भी सहायक होता है. शराब B12 के लेवल को घटा देती है और उसका कम निर्माण करती है. इससे पुरुषों में इन्फर्टिलिटी या सेक्सुअल डिस्फंक्शन की भी समस्या हो सकती है.

कैल्‍शियम और विटामिन-डी के अवशोषण में बाधा0-
शराब पीने से हमारी आंत कमजोर हो जाती है जिससे वह कैल्‍शियम और विटामिन डी अवशोषित नहीं कर पाता. इन जरुरी मिनरल्‍स की कमी की वजह से हड्डियों पर बड़ा ही बुरा असर पड़ता है. लिवर डैमेज इसको ज्‍यादा पीने से सिरोसिस हो जाता है जिससे लिवर में घाव हो जाता है और वह ठीक से काम नहीं कर पाता. इससे इंसान की मृत्‍यु भी हो सकती है.

अवसाद-
शराब दिमाग से निकलने वाले हार्मोन का लेवल कम कर देती है. यही वही हार्मोन होता है जो हमें अच्‍छा महसूस करवाता है. शराब कुछ देर के लिये तो मूड को बेहतर बनाती है लेकिन बाद में यह हमें अवसाद के घेरे में ढकेल देती है.

दिमागी कमजोरी-
ज्यादा दिन तक लगातार शराब पीते रहने से दिमाग सोंचने-समझने तथा निर्णय लेने की क्षमता खो बैठता है. इसके अलावा डिमेंशिया नामक बीमारी हो जाती है जिसमें व्‍यक्‍ति अपनी याद्दाश्त धीरे-धीरे नष्ट होना शुरू हो जाता है.

नपुंसकता का खतरा-
अधिक मात्रा में शराब का सेवन वीर्य को नुकसान पहुंचाता है. इससे वीर्य की क्‍वालिटी घट जाती है. साथ ही इससे हार्मोन का संतुलन भी बिगड़ जाता है , जिससे शुक्राणुओं पर बुरा असर पड़ता है. इसके परिणामस्वरूप व्यक्ति नपुंसक भी हो सकता है.

हृदय रोग-
रिसर्च के माध्‍यम से पता चला है कि ज्‍यादा शराब के सेवन से दिल की मासपेशियां कमजोर पड़ने लगती हैं, जिससे हृदय तक पहुंचने वाला रक्‍त सही गति से उस तक नहीं पहुंच पाता. इसके आलावा इससे हार्ट अटैक, स्‍ट्रोक और हाई बीपी भी हो सकता है.
 

लिवर, हमारे शरीर के प्रमुख आतंरिक अंगों में से एक है. असल में देखा जाए तो यह एक ग्रंथि है जिसे आप शरीर की सबसे बड़ी ग्रंथि कह सकते हैं. हलांकि इसकी गिनती सबसे बड़े अंगों में भी की जाती है. लिवर पित्त का निर्माण करता है, जो फैट को टूटने में मदद करता है. यह ब्लड को फ़िल्टर करने में भी सहायता करता है. लिवर में सामान्य रूप से कुछ फैट ज़रूर होता है, लेकिन कभी-कभी लिवर की कोशिकाओं में फैट की संख्या बढ़ने लगती है. यह एक गंभीर बिमारी होता है जिसे सामान्य तौर पर फैटी लिवर के नाम से जाना जाता है. फैटी लिवर डिसऑर्डर मुख्य रूप से दो प्रकार के होते हैं - एल्कोहल फैटी लिवर और नॉन-एल्कोहल फैटी लिवर. फैटी लिवर के मुख्य कारणों में खराब आहार के साथ साथ रोजाना और सिमित मात्रा में ज्यादा शराब पीना, मोटापा आदि शामिल हैं. यह बीमारी जेनेटिक (पारिवारिक) भी हो सकती है. विशेष रूप से फैटी लिवर की शुरूआत के दौरान इसके लक्षणों को अनुभव नहीं किया जाता है. लेकिन जब यह गंभीर होने लगता है, तब इसके लक्षण धीरे-धीरे अनुभव होने लगते हैं. इसमें कुछ लोगों के लक्षण एकदम साफ दिखाई देने लगता हैं तो वहीँ कुछ लोगों में यह लक्षण केवल सांकेतिक होता है. आइए इस लेख के माध्यम से हम फैटी लिवर के ट्रीटमेंट के बारे में जानते हैं.

फैटी लीवर की तीन अवस्थाएं-
पहली अवस्था: - फैटी लीवर की पहली अवस्था में अनावश्यक थकान, वजन घटना और पाचन संबंधी गडबडियां आमतौर पर देखने को मिलती हैं.

दूसरी अवस्था: - इस बीमारी की दूसरी अवस्था में चक्कर और उल्टियां आना, भोजन में अरुचि और बुखार जैसे लक्षण आमतौर पर देखने को देखने को मिलते हैं.

तीसरी अवस्था: - तीसरी और अंतिम अवस्था में उल्टियों के साथ खून आना, बेहोशी और मामूली सी चोट लगने पर ब्लीडिंग का न रुकना जैसे लक्षण देखने को मिलते हैं. इसमें दवाओं का कोई असर नहीं होता है और ट्रांस्प्लांट ही इसका एकमात्र उपचार है.

फैटी लिवर के घरेलू उपचार:
1. नींबू सौंठ और मिश्री की सहायता से-
एक कागजी निम्बू जो कि अच्छा पका हुआ हो उसके दो टुकड़े कर लें. इसके बाद उसमें से बीज को निकालकर आधे निम्बू को बिना काटे चार भागों में बाँट लें लेकिन ध्यान रहे कि टुकड़े अलग- अलग न होने पाएं. अब इसके एक भाग में काली मिर्च का बारीक पीसा हुआ चूर्ण, दूसरे में काला नमक अथवा सेंधा नमक जो भी उपलब्ध हो, तीसरे में सोंठ का चूर्ण और चौथे में मिश्री का चूर्ण या शक्कर भर कर रात को प्लेट में ढककर रख दें. सुबह में भोजन करने से एक घंटे पहले इस निम्बू की फांक को मंदी आंच या तवे पर गर्म करके चूस लें.

2. प्याज दूर करे लीवर फैटी लीवर-
प्याज आमतौर पर कई रोगों में आयुर्वेदिक औषधि के रूप में इस्तेमाल किया जाता रहा है. इसका इस्तेमाल हम लीवर फैटी लीवर के उयपचार में भी कर सकते हैं. इसके लिए आपको बस इतना करना है कि दिन में दो बार प्याज खाते रहें. ऐसा करने से लाभ होगा.

3. छाछ आयुर्वेदिक उपचार है लीवर फैटी लीवर का-
छाछ को हमलोग वैसे भी पेट के छोटे मोटे बीमारियों में इस्तेमाल कराते रहे हैं. लीवर के लिए ये बेहद फायदेमंद है. लीवर फैटी लीवर में छाछ जिसमें हींग का बगार देकर, जीरा काली मिर्च और नमक मिला हु हो दोपहर के भोजन के बाद सेवन करने से बहुत लाभ मिलता है.

4. आंवलों का रस-
आंवलों का रस 25 ग्राम या सूखे आंवलों का चूर्ण चार ग्राम पानी के साथ, दिन में तीन बार सेवन करने से पंद्रह से बीस दिन में यकृत के सारे दोष दूर हो जाते है. यही नहीं आंवले का सेवन आपको कई अन्य अतिरिक्त लाभ भी प्रदान करता है.

5. नींबू पानी के उपयोग से-
नींबू का खट्टा स्वाद पेट की कई समस्याओं का प्रभावी निदान प्रस्तुत करता है. इसके लिए आपको एक सौ ग्राम पानी में आधा निम्बू निचोड़कर नमक डालें (चीनी मत डाले) और इसे दिन में तीन बार पीने से जिगर की खराबी ठीक होती हैं.

6. जामुन की सहयाता से-
जामुन का कसैला स्वाद भी कई औषधीय कामों में इसेमल हो जाता है. जामुन के मौसम में 200-300 ग्राम बढ़िया और पके हुए जामुन प्रतिदिन खाली पेट खाने से जिगर की खराबी दूर हो जाती है. लीवर फैटी लीवर में भी इसका इस्तेमाल फलदायक सिद्ध होता है.