If there’s anything that the past 2.5 years of living amid an unpredictable, energy-sapping, life-altering pandemic have taught us: it’s that there’s truly no greater wealth than securing one’s own health and safety, not only for ourselves, but also for our loved ones. Furthermore, hunkering down, shifting priorities, and doing our best to make wise lifestyle choices, in this era, may have also highlighted an essential truth: that healthy living is, indeed, a lifestyle­­ that works best by gradually incorporating health-forward and wellness-minded choices into our daily routines, until they become second nature. However, the burning question that many of us may have is: Where do we begin?

With this question in mind, the Al D. Rodriguez Liver Foundation offers our suggested ‘Top 10 Sensational Food & Lifestyle Swaps’ to boost your liver health in these insecure times, as well as to secure your mind, body, and soul, overall. As you may have read in ADRLF’s regular blog updates, our liver health is significantly impacted by our daily diet and activities – such as avoiding pro-inflammatory processed foods; monitoring alcohol intake; actively choosing beverages with benefits (including water!), and engaging in regular exercise. So, to champion self-care for World Hepatitis Day, let’s explore these bona fide ‘liver-forward’ food alternatives and lifestyle hacks that can help you reach your optimum wellness goals.

1. Say NO to rise n’ shine inflammation! Switch-up those quick-to-grab, carb-based breakfast sammies & muffins! Upgrade with dazzling plant-based, whole food options—from savory avocado tartines to beautiful berry bowls—that your body will thank you for! https://bit.ly/3xbRcum
2. Trick that sweet tooth! Swap refined sugar with tasty healthy natural sweeteners like stevia, honey, and maple syrup. Fun tip: For baking, try: dates, monk fruit, and bananas instead. https://bit.ly/3LDDVlv
3. Get movin’ for a healthy liver! Workaholics: Swap out your old-school sedentary workstation; replace it with a dynamic upright standing desk! And stay active—even during your work day—by stretching, walking in place, taking virtual lunch break Pilates classes, and more! https://bit.ly/3zd6ws5
4. No more 2 A.M. doom-scrolling! Disrupt your newsfeed addiction and nocturnal overwhelm—and insert vital nourishment from restorative sleep! Inside tip: Rest will even improve your vaccine efficiency. https://bit.ly/3aCSvNA
5. Beware! Did you know some plastic food containers contain ‘forever chemicals’ that could harm your liver? Ditch those plastic to-go containers, and welcome them in ceramic food bowls, particularly when heating meals. https://bit.ly/3O86VEb
6. Respectfully decline that risky (unregulated!) ‘tattoo party’ invite, and throw your own festive, plant-based ink, needle-free ‘henna shindig’. Take it outdoors for some COVID-19-safe fun with good friends, while drawing frolicking designs, and safeguarding your body from carcinogenic inks, as well as #hepatitis hazardous needles. https://bit.ly/3aqvuNC
7. Get your grilling on, safely! Literally: Swap out those plates that held your marinated raw meats, and replace with clean dishes to serve your cooked food! Exchange your charcoal griller for a gas one!
8. Unplug, guilt-free! Disconnect from those laptops, phones, and Zoom meetings—and prioritize some fun, liver-revitalizing activities like dance, tai chi, swimming, and yoga! https://bit.ly/2Y1nI3j
9. Sip wisely! Trade out those feisty cocktails and artificially flavored sodas, and elevate your sips with luscious mocktails and thirst-quenching herbal teas. Bonus points: blend with a frozen banana, and a frosty smoothie appears! https://bit.ly/3x5bWG9
10. Step aside, stressors! Been vaping to escape? Smoking to calm down? Reverse those anxiety-induced habits, and embrace your ‘covid era normal’ with unique restorative meditation practices! Try movement or gratitude meditation to help melt away the worry and stress. https://bit.ly/3Hw0N6a Been vaping to escape? Smoking to calm down? Reverse those anxiety-induced habits, and embrace your ‘covid era normal’ with unique restorative meditation practices!

ADRLF hopes these sensational swap ideas will inspire you to have a fun, safe, and liver-healthy summer! And as always—remember to Screen! Vaccinate! Don’t Hesitate!