4 "Risky" Morning Habits That Damage Your Li.ver—90% of People Do Them Every Day!

These are the four most harmful habits for your li.ver right after you wake up.

 

 

In Sơn Đông (China), Mr. Truong, 53, had been living with hepatitis B for 30 years. He always felt in great health and never experienced any discomfort. He even practiced Tai Chi daily to build character and improve his physical fitness. Despite his family urging him to get regular health checkups, he always believed it was a waste of money and never went to see a doctor.

Mr. Truong also had a habit of drinking several glasses of alcohol every night. He firmly believed that drinking alcohol could strengthen his muscles and bones. To him, this was a normal and comfortable way of life—a dream come true for many.

However, not long ago, Mr. Truong began experiencing pain in his right shoulder. At first, he thought he had strained his muscle during Tai Chi practice, so he paid little attention and only used pain relief patches. But after a few days, his symptoms didn’t improve; instead, he started experiencing frequent nosebleeds and bleeding gums.

It wasn’t until then that Mr. Truong realized the seriousness of his condition and rushed to the hospital for an examination. Test results revealed that his hepatitis B viral load had increased sevenfold, his liver function was abnormal, transaminase levels were over 500, albumin levels were as low as 27, and color Doppler ultrasound of his liver, gallbladder, and spleen showed thickened liver tissue with increased echogenicity, an enlarged spleen, and scars. Ultimately, Mr. Truong was diagnosed with cirrhosis.

The liver is the most important organ for metabolism and detoxification in the human body, responsible for functions such as breaking down toxins, synthesizing proteins, and storing energy. However, certain morning habits can inadvertently harm liver health.

1. Drinking Strong Coffee or Tea on an Empty Stomach
   Many people have the habit of waking up early and drinking a cup of strong coffee or tea to wake up, but doing so on an empty stomach can stimulate excessive gastric acid secretion and increase the metabolic burden on the liver. Both caffeine and theophylline require liver processing. Regularly consuming them on an empty stomach can damage the liver and even affect its function.
   What to Do: Start by drinking a glass of warm water, then have a small snack (like a piece of bread or an egg) before enjoying your coffee or tea.

2. Holding in Urine and Not Getting Up
   After waking up, many people tend to hold in their urine due to sleepiness or laziness. However, after a night of metabolism, a significant amount of toxins (such as urea and uric acid) accumulate in the bladder. If not expelled in time, these toxins can be reabsorbed into the bloodstream, increasing the detoxification burden on the liver.
   What to Do: Urinate as soon as you wake up to help your body eliminate toxins and reduce liver strain.

3. Skipping Breakfast or Eating a High-Fat, High-Sugar Breakfast
   Skipping breakfast causes blood sugar levels to drop, forcing the liver to break down glycogen for energy. Over time, this can lead to fatty liver disease. A breakfast high in fats and sugars (like fried foods, pastries, and sugary treats) increases fat accumulation in the liver, leading to fatty liver disease and even cirrhosis.
   What to Do: Opt for a healthy breakfast that combines high-quality protein (such as eggs or milk) with fiber (like oatmeal or whole-grain bread) and a moderate amount of fruit.

4. Smoking or Drinking Alcohol Immediately After Waking Up
   Some people have the habit of smoking or drinking alcohol right after they wake up, but the harmful substances in tobacco and alcohol can directly damage liver cells. Especially on an empty stomach, alcohol is absorbed more quickly and becomes more toxic to the liver. Prolonged use can lead to alcoholic liver disease, cirrhosis, and even liver cancer.
   What to Do: Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption—especially avoid smoking or drinking on an empty stomach in the morning.

By adopting healthier morning habits, you can significantly reduce the risk of liver damage and maintain better overall health.