#Japan #Health Survey #Bungo-Takada #liver function #natural food research

Introduction

As we age, noticeable changes in our bodies become inevitable, particularly in our 40s and 50s. This period often brings about alterations in basal metabolism and hormonal balances, leading to increased fatigue and health complaints. In recent years, the diversification of work styles and lifestyles has contributed to a surge in reports of chronic fatigue and deteriorating sleep quality. Medical professionals have increasingly noted the emergence of lifestyle-related diseases and declines in organ function during this age range, suggesting a gap between health maintenance awareness and practice.

In light of these concerns, Natural Food Research Co., Ltd., located in Bungo-Takada, Oita Prefecture, conducted a survey on the awareness of health issues related to liver function among men and women aged 40 to 50, as well as among internal medicine specialists. The study, titled 'Awareness of Health Problems and Liver Function in Individuals Aged 40 to 50,' spans over two days from July 16 to 17, 2025, and includes responses from a total of 1,004 participants.

Survey Findings: Recognizing Body Changes

When we asked participants in their 40s and 50s about the health challenges they faced, the most common response was 'I find it harder to recover from fatigue' (47.4%), followed by 'I feel more lethargic' (36.9%) and 'The quality of my sleep has decreased' (28.9%).

The summer season, often accompanied by high temperatures and humidity, can exacerbate conditions such as 'summer fatigue' and 'air conditioning fatigue.' These factors can disrupt the autonomic nervous system, leading to vague but persistent feelings of discomfort, chronic fatigue, and poor sleep quality. Many individuals face such issues without clear symptoms that would typically prompt clinical attention, leading them to overlook 'exhaustion' or 'tiredness' as merely a part of aging.

Responses to Health Issues

Furthermore, when we explored how these individuals addressed their health concerns, we found that nearly 38.1% of respondents indicated they were doing 'nothing in particular' to improve or maintain their health. The next most common actions included 'regular exercise' (30.7%), 'ensuring adequate sleep' (29.3%), and 'reassessing dietary habits' (23.5%). This highlights a concerning trend: nearly 40% of respondents feel unwell but have taken no proactive measures.

Nutritional Awareness

Despite many people raising food choices as a primary focus, we delved into whether they consciously aimed to include specific nutrients. Over half of respondents (51.4%) stated they do not consciously aim for any particular nutrient. In contrast, 16.1% prioritized protein, and only 11.7% focused on vitamins. This indicates a general lack of understanding about nutritional components, suggesting a need for more education and awareness.

The Silent Organ: Understanding Liver Function

Chronic feelings of fatigue and lethargy may be more closely linked to liver function than most realize. The liver, known as the 'silent organ,' plays a pivotal role in metabolism, detoxification, and nutrient storage, yet its functional decline often goes unnoticed. Our survey revealed a concerning lack of awareness: 93.6% of participants had never engaged in liver care activities. Additionally, when asked about their knowledge of the connection between liver function decline and overall fatigue, 55% admitted to being completely unaware, while 38.4% had heard of it but lacked detailed understanding.

Insights from Medical Professionals

To further investigate these concerns, we consulted internal medicine specialists about the common health issues they observe in patients aged 40 to 50. The most frequently reported symptoms included gastrointestinal troubles (50.6%), chronic fatigue (49.4%), and liver dysfunction markers (43.8%), illustrating a disparity between patients’ self-reported issues and the clinical realities recognized by healthcare providers.

Bridging the Knowledge Gap

When asked about overlooked health risks among the same age group, internal medicine doctors highlighted the decline in kidney function (41.8%) as a significant concern. Other risks included a lack of awareness regarding high blood pressure and cholesterol (39.6%) and prediabetes (37.7%). Acknowledging liver dysfunction as a common issue aligns with our earlier findings that this demographic is often unaware of the connection between liver health and overall wellness.

Recommendations for Liver Health

In encouraging liver care, nearly 90% of physicians expressed their willingness to recommend liver care to their patients. Commonly suggested supplements included taurine, B vitamins, and ornithine, all vital for supporting liver detoxification and energy levels. This reflects a growing recognition among healthcare professionals regarding the importance of liver health, especially for individuals in their 40s and 50s.

Conclusion

This survey highlights a notable discrepancy between the perceived health concerns of individuals in their 40s and 50s and the clinical realities recognized by healthcare professionals. Many participants reported chronic, vague health complaints while a staggering 93.6% had never engaged in liver care. Conversely, 90% of internal medicine specialists implicated declining liver function in the health issues of their patients.

In light of the findings, it’s evident that enhancing awareness and understanding of liver function’s role in overall health is crucial. As individuals recognize their health conditions, they can take actionable steps toward maintaining and improving their well-being, starting with education. Understanding is a crucial first step towards health management.

Natural Food Research Co., Ltd. offers 'Shijimi Shukan', designed to promote liver health using ingredients known for their supportive roles in bodily function. Designed with care, we strive to deliver products that embody the natural benefits of shiitake clams, promoting awareness around liver health.

For more information or to inquire about products, visit Natural Food Research.