• One increase in diagnosis that has disturbed hepatologists is fatty liver disease. As rates of obesity have risen, so has that illness. Maintaining a healthy weight and getting regular exercise are two of the first recommendations for protecting your liver.

• Avoid heavy alcohol consumption.

• Certain over-the-counter medications, taken in large doses, can stress the liver. Talk to your physician about how to be safe.

• Get vaccinated for Hepatitis A and B. Hepatitis can cause serious and permanent liver damage.

• Include plenty of fruits and vegetables in your diet and keep high-fat foods to a minimum.

• Ask your doctor about a liver function evaluation. Based on your health history, it might be appropriate.

When to See Your Doctor

• Fatigue, skin irritation, nausea and abdominal pain

• Darkened urine

• Increase in abdominal girth

• Yellowing skin and eyes

For more information about live liver transplant program at Stanford, please call 650-498-7878 or visit stanfordhospital.org/livertransplant.