Understanding the Link Between Summer Fatigue and Liver Health
With summer temperatures soaring in Japan, many individuals face symptoms like fatigue, loss of appetite, and headaches. A recent survey by
Natural Food Research Co. (https://www.sizenshokken.co.jp/) highlighted that over 80% of people aged 30 and above suffering from summer fatigue recognize issues such as lethargy as primary symptoms. However, a growing number of medical professionals are focusing on a less-discussed cause:
a decrease in liver function.
The Increase of Summer Fatigue
Naturally, various reasons contribute to summer fatigue, primarily including climate change, dehydration, and nutritional imbalance. Yet, the correlation with liver function has recently gained attention among healthcare professionals. The liver plays a critical role in metabolism and detoxification—two vital processes for maintaining good health. This brings us to the survey conducted from June 3-4, 2025, focusing on the causes and remedies related to summer fatigue.
Survey Overview
Conducted online by PRIZMA (https://www.prizma-link.com/press), the survey collected insights from 1,011 respondents, comprising 507 individual participants who identified as having experienced summer fatigue and 504 internal medicine specialists.
While exploring this discourse, it’s imperative to note that the study serves to present the collected opinions rather than validate specific health claims.
Key Findings: Symptoms of Summer Fatigue
When participants were asked about the common onset of summer fatigue, 57.2% identified it occurring between
late July and mid-August, coinciding with the hottest days of the season. Additionally, 61.3% reported experiencing substantial impacts on their daily activities due to summer fatigue, indicating that proactive measures are significantly needed to address this issue.
The Critical Role of Liver Function
Upon questioning the relationship between liver health and summer fatigue, only a small percentage (8.3%) claimed to be fully aware of the connection, while 64.9% had little to no knowledge. This statistic reveals a knowledge gap that could impair effective prevention strategies against summer fatigue.
Approximately 80% of respondents expressed a desire to implement liver care measures, indicating an opportunity to educate the public on the importance of liver health in combating seasonal fatigue. Public awareness about maintaining liver health can lead to diminishing symptoms of heaviness and lethargy during the intensely hot months.
Insights from Medical Professionals
In discussing the causes of summer fatigue, over
35% of doctors surveyed identified liver function decline as a significant factor, despite it not being the most openly acknowledged cause. Predominantly, 57.9% pinpointed rising temperatures and humidity as key contributors to fatigue.
When doctors were asked about lifestyle changes they recommend, more than
55% stressed the necessity of hydration. A balanced diet (47.0%) and enhanced sleep quality (44.1%) were also highlighted, supporting the idea that proper lifestyle choices fundamentally influence well-being.
Nutritional Powerhouses for Liver Care
When it comes to liver care specifically, medical experts identified several vital nutrients:
- - Vitamin B Complex (48.4%)
- - Taurine (45.1%)
- - Ornithine (43.5%)
These nutrients play crucial roles in energy metabolism and fatigue recovery, as well as in supporting liver detoxification processes. However, the survey clarified that awareness around these nutrients remains limited, much like understanding the relationship between liver health and summer fatigue.
Simple and Effective Liver Care Methods
What practical steps can individuals take to care for their liver over the summer? The survey indicated that 56.0% believe focusing on a balanced diet is the best method, while 54.1% recommended incorporating foods like
shijimi clams,
asari clams, and
mushrooms known for their liver-supporting properties. Furthermore, about 38.1% of respondents viewed supplements as a convenient option to ensure adequate nutrient intake.
Conclusion: Emphasizing the Importance of Liver Health
In conclusion, addressing summer fatigue necessitates recognition not only of environmental factors such as heat and nutritional deficits but also of the potential decline in liver function. With 90% of doctors advocating the validity of liver care as a summer fatigue mitigation strategy, incorporating supportive foods and supplements into daily habits can become manageable strategies for all. By raising awareness and integrating simple adjustments into daily life, individuals can enhance their overall well-being as summer peaks. Taking mindful steps toward liver health may pave the way for a more enjoyable, energetic summer season ahead.