Many people don’t realize just how important the liver is. It is responsible for breaking down and removing toxins from the body. However, there are many things people do that can damage the liver.

Here are the top 10 things you might be doing that are hurting your liver:.

1. Drinking too much alcohol

The liver has to work overtime to break down alcohol. If you drink too much, it can lead to liver damage. Heavy alcohol consumption can cause inflammation, cirrhosis, and even liver failure.

If you enjoy drinking, try to limit yourself to one or two drinks a day.

2. Eating a diet that’s high in fat

When you eat a diet that’s high in fat, your liver has to work harder to process it. Over time, this can lead to fatty liver disease, a condition where excess fat builds up in the liver.

Try to eat a diet that’s low in saturated and trans fats.

3. Overusing medications

Many over-the-counter and prescription medications can be hard on the liver. Taking too much of any medication can cause liver damage.

If you need to take medications on a regular basis, talk to your doctor about how to safely use them without damaging your liver.

4. Smoking cigarettes

Smoking is bad for your health in so many ways, and it also hurts your liver. Smoking can cause inflammation and oxidative stress in the liver, which can lead to liver damage over time.

Quitting smoking is the best thing you can do for your health overall.

5. Being overweight or obese

People who are overweight or obese are at a greater risk for developing fatty liver disease. When you carry excess weight, your liver has to work harder to process nutrients, and it can become overwhelmed.

Losing weight can help relieve this burden on the liver.

6. Neglecting to exercise

Exercise is important for overall health, and it also helps keep the liver healthy. Regular exercise can help prevent fatty liver disease and reduce the risk of liver damage. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.

7. Exposing yourself to toxins

There are many toxins in our environment that can be harmful to the liver. Exposure to pesticides, heavy metals, and other toxins can cause liver damage over time. Be aware of the toxins in your environment and try to avoid exposure whenever possible.

8. Drinking too much sugary drinks

Sugary drinks can also be hard on the liver. Drinking too much soda or other sugary beverages can lead to fatty liver disease and other liver problems. Try to limit your intake of these drinks and opt for water or unsweetened tea instead.

9. Consuming too much salt

Consuming too much salt can lead to high blood pressure, which can be harmful to the liver. Over time, high blood pressure can cause damage to the small blood vessels in the liver. Try to limit your salt intake to less than 2,300 milligrams per day.

10. Not getting enough sleep

Sleep is essential for overall health, and it’s also important for a healthy liver. When you don’t get enough sleep, your liver can become overwhelmed and unable to function properly.

Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep per night to keep your liver healthy.