#Japan #Fukuoka #liver care #haju #drinking habits

An Overview of Drinking Habits During Year-End Parties

As the year-end party season approaches, many individuals often anticipate increased drinking opportunities. A recent study conducted by Haju Co., based in Fukuoka, Japan, sheds light on the drinking habits and liver care awareness of adults over the age of 20. The survey, which included 500 participants, revealed a disconcerting gap between the recognition of alcohol consumption and the actual measures taken for liver health.

Survey Details

• - Survey Period: December 15-20, 2025
• - Method: Online survey
• - Participants: 500 adults aged 20 and above
• - Conducted by: Haju Co.

Key Findings

Increased Alcohol Consumption is Common

In response to whether drinking opportunities increase during the year-end and New Year festivities, 76% acknowledged an increase, with 59% stating they drink slightly more and 17% indicating a significant increase. Only 24% felt their drinking habits remained unchanged, highlighting a widespread acceptance of increased alcohol consumption during this festive period.

Awareness of Liver Health

While over 60% of survey respondents expressed some awareness regarding their liver health, only 9% reported being strongly conscious of it. This raises a red flag about the level of importance placed on liver care among individuals who are aware of their increased alcohol intake; 34% admitted that they either did not think about it much or not at all.

Action (or Inaction) Regarding Liver Care

When asked if they take measures towards liver care during the year-end celebrations, a staggering 37% admitted to taking almost no precautions. Combining this with the 33% who stated they are somewhat cautious and the 19% who feel they care but take no action, nearly 90% of individuals are not implementing sufficient liver care strategies. Only 11% of participants indicated they have a specific plan for liver health—highlighting a stark discrepancy between awareness and action.

Lack of Specific Strategies

When asked about their specific liver care strategies, the most common response was ‘no specific measures’ with 217 respondents giving this answer. Other popular measures included:

• - Taking over-the-counter supplements (106 respondents)
• - Reducing alcohol consumption (102 respondents)
• - Being mindful of meal choices (102 respondents)
• - Establishing alcohol-free days (86 respondents)

This indicates a significant portion of individuals are unsure about which effective measures they should adopt for liver health.

Reasons for Not Taking Action

Among those who do not take measures to care for their liver, the predominant reason cited was a belief that they are still fine (140 respondents). Other reasons included:

• - Not knowing what measures to take (76 respondents)
• - The perceived inconvenience of making safety measures a habit (53 respondents)
• - Not recognizing any symptoms (16 respondents)
• - Concerns about costs (11 respondents)

This suggests that the absence of immediate symptoms can lead to complacency, which could be delaying necessary action for liver health.

Conclusion

In summary, as the year-end festivities approach, it is crucial to recognize the importance of initiating liver care practices. A call to action emerges: to encourage individuals to adopt manageable liver care habits that can be easily integrated into their lifestyles.

A Recipe for Recovery: Shirasu Japanese-Style Soy Milk Risotto

In response to the need for liver care during this season, we present an easy-to-make recipe for Shirasu Japanese-style soy milk risotto. This dish is low in fat, easy to digest, and provides necessary nutrients for a tired liver after a night of revelry.

Ingredients (Serves 1)

• - Rice: 120g
• - Unsweetened soy milk: 120ml
• - Boiled shirasu: 1 tablespoon
• - Shimeji mushrooms: 30g
• - White dashi: 2 teaspoons
• - Green onion: to taste

Instructions

1. Combine the rice, soy milk, shimeji mushrooms, and white dashi in a microwave-safe container and mix gently.
2. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and microwave on high for 2 minutes.
3. Remove and stir once, then continue microwaving for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute as needed.
4. Top with shirasu and green onion to serve.

Nutritional Insights

During the breakdown of alcohol, the liver utilizes a significant amount of energy and nutrients. Hence, providing easily digestible and nutritious meals post-drinking is vital. This risotto not only supports liver function recovery but also ensures a soothing meal for a sensitive stomach.

Nutritionist Overview: Fumi Sanpei, a certified nutritionist and diabetes educator, underscores the significance of mindful eating for maintaining health. Currently, she provides online nutritional coaching and recipe development. Her philosophy revolves around enjoying healthy eating while ensuring it fits seamlessly into individuals’ daily lives. Her interests include cycling and traveling.

For further insights on liver care and other health-related topics, look out for more stories from Haju.