What Can I Do to Increase Spleen Health?
- Another function of the spleen is to return useful nutrients and other elements to the body by filtering them for reuse. This is why spleen health, though often neglected, is imperative. A healthy spleen can be managed through a healthy diet and by avoiding substances that tend to cause enlargement. Slightly increasing in size during digestion, the average adult spleen is about 3 inches by 5 inches. When the spleen is under stress, it responds by slightly enlarging. Sometimes, when diseases and physical conditions like leukemia, lupus, sickle cell and rheumatoid arthritis are present, they can cause the spleen to enlarge so much that it may rupture. This happens when it performs many tasks at once and when it is sent into a full-blown, defense mode. Viruses and bacteria are also contributing factors to an enlarged spleen. One thing you can do to attempt to maintain spleen health is to try, when possible, to avoid contracting a bacterial or viral infection. Do this by practicing good sanitation and hygiene: wash your hands frequently, avoid contact with people who are ill, and get regular checkups to catch any illnesses early.
- Because your spleen is an active organ that filters, supplies, destroys and rebuilds cells regularly, it depends on a good supply of nutrients in order to function optimally. Illegal drugs, excessive alcohol, smoking and overly processed foods that are stuffed with unnecessary ingredients can all cause your spleen to enlarge. Avoid eating these processed foods in excess to help improve the health of your spleen. Once it is enlarged it may rupture, and excessive bleeding can create a serious emergency or even the need for surgery. Without surgery, the spleen can be healed, but only with discipline and care in order to nourish it back to health and later by applying preventative measures to keep it healthy. This would involve following a careful diet regimen, and taking medications such as antibiotics as prescribed by your doctor.
- If you are unable to maintain the health of your spleen, sometimes the best thing to do is have it removed so it does not rupture. Although the spleen has an important function in maintaining your body's resistance to disease and keeping it nourished with iron and other essential nutrients, your body can manage without it. Once your spleen is removed, other vital organs like the liver, gall bladder and pancreas, all pitch in and help to keep your blood clean and your system balanced and healthy.