In an enlightening installment of TODAY’s Never Have I Ever series, health experts share practices they advise against, revealing crucial insights that could shield your well-being.

The Liver: Your Body’s Unsung Hero

The liver, one of the body's most vital organs, is responsible for numerous essential functions—from detoxifying our blood to metabolizing nutrients and aiding in digestion. Surprisingly, it rarely needs any external help to perform these tasks.

The Myth of Liver Supplements

Despite the flood of cleanses and supplements claiming to detoxify and enhance liver function, Dr. Raymond Chung, chief of gastroenterology, hepatology, and endoscopy at Mass General Brigham, says there's no clinical backing for these claims. In fact, some products may actually harm the liver, leading to serious conditions like liver damage or failure.

Dr. Chung's Stance on Liver Cleanses

So why has Dr. Chung never tried a liver cleanse? He emphasizes that while it’s natural to seek out ways to support our health, the liver is well-equipped to handle its workload without additional assistance. He raises concerns about the safety of many supplements, largely because the FDA does not pre-approve their safety before they hit the shelves.

The Risks of Common Supplements

Certain supplements, like black cohosh, kava, and excessive vitamin A, pose a higher risk to liver health. Dr. Chung warns that rather than detoxifying, these products can overwhelm the liver's natural detoxification abilities, leading to potential harm.

What to Do Instead

But don't panic if you've used liver cleanses in the past! Fortunately, the liver is a resilient organ with remarkable regenerative powers. Dr. Chung reassures us that with proper care—mainly by avoiding questionable supplements—most liver injuries can heal.

Embrace a Healthier Lifestyle

Instead of relying on risky supplements, focus on adopting a balanced lifestyle. Dr. Chung advocates for the Mediterranean diet, packed with healthy fats, lean proteins, vegetables, and whole grains. This diet isn't just nutritious; it also reduces the risk of liver-related diseases and promotes overall health.

Stay active and keep your alcohol intake in check, especially if you have existing liver concerns. A bit of lifestyle adjustment can make a world of difference for your liver's health.

In Conclusion: Trust Your Liver!

In summary, your liver is a robust filter that can handle its detoxification needs without external interventions. Trust it and make wise lifestyle choices to ensure it remains in top shape!