The liver is one of the hardest-working organs in the human body, performing more than 500 essential functions that keep you alive and well.
Roughly the size of a football and located in the upper right abdomen, the liver plays a critical role in filtering toxins, alcohol, and medications from the blood, producing bile to aid digestion, and storing vital nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and glucose for energy regulation. Remarkably resilient, it is the only organ capable of regenerating itself even after damage or partial removal. However, this strength has limits.
According to Dr. Angelo B. Lozada of Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed), unhealthy lifestyle habits—many of which people consider harmless or routine—can quietly strain the liver and lead to serious conditions such as fatty liver disease, cirrhosis, and even liver cancer.
Excessive or even moderate alcohol consumption, improper use of over-the-counter painkillers, unregulated intake of “natural” supplements, obesity, smoking, and sedentary living can all contribute to liver damage, often without noticeable symptoms in the early stages.
Because liver disease is frequently a “silent killer,” recognizing these hidden risks and making healthier choices—such as proper medication use, balanced nutrition, regular exercise, smoking cessation, and adequate hydration—is essential to protecting liver health. By understanding how everyday habits affect this vital organ, individuals can take proactive steps to support long-term wellness and prevent irreversible liver damage.
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