Liver is an important organ that plays an important role in maintaining our overall health and well-being. Liver carries hundreds of essential tasks like encompassing detoxification, nutrient processing, and protein production. While the liver is designed in a way to detoxify itself, there are various factors that can challenge its health. This vital organ is not immune to threats, as liver diseases and other conditions pose substantial global health concerns. It is important to be aware of the key information about liver health to stay preventive. We reached out to Dr Aniket Payagude, Consultant - Surgical Gastroenterology, Manipal Hospital Baner, Pune who shared some significant liver health facts.
5 Unknown Facts About Liver
#1 Regenerative Power of Liver
According to Dr Payagude, “liver is a remarkable organ when it comes to regeneration. It can regrow lost tissue and even partially restore itself after injury or surgical removal. This unique ability makes living-donor liver transplants possible, as the donated portion regenerates in both the donor and the recipient.”
#2 Glycogen Storage
The liver acts as the body's glucose store. As per a study published in NCBI, liver stores glucose in the form of glycogen and releases it when there is a need for blood sugar management. This helps regulate energy levels and prevent extreme fluctuations in glucose levels.
Also Read: Do Oral Contraceptive Pills Harm Liver Health? Doctor Answers
#3 Bile Production and Recycling
Liver produces bile which is a fluid that is critical for digestion. Interestingly, bile is recycled by the body. Dr Payagude explains that bile aids digestion in the small intestine and it is sent back to the liver for use that boosts utilisation of resources.
#4 Blood Supply
Did you know that the liver has a dual blood supply? Dr Payagude mentions that the liver receives oxygen-rich blood from the hepatic artery and nutrient-rich blood from the portal vein, which carries blood from the intestines and spleen. This unique arrangement helps the liver process and regulate a wide array of substances.
#5 Vitamin Storage
“Liver plays an important role in storing vital nutrients. It stores vitamins like A, D, and B12, as well as minerals like iron and copper. These reserves are utilised when needed, ensuring a steady supply for various bodily functions,” describes Dr Payagude.
Watch this video to know how to protect your liver health:
Factors that can cause risks to liver health
Doctor lists out certain factors that are bad for your liver and you should limit or avoid these:
Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Heavy and prolonged alcohol consumption can lead to alcoholic liver disease, causing inflammation, fatty liver, alcoholic hepatitis, and cirrhosis.
Unhealthy Diet: Diets high in sugar, unhealthy fats, and processed foods can contribute to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which is characterised by the accumulation of fat in the liver cells.
Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome: Obesity and conditions like insulin resistance and high blood pressure are linked to NAFLD and an increased risk of liver disease.
Autoimmune Disorders: Autoimmune diseases like autoimmune hepatitis and primary biliary cirrhosis can cause the immune system to mistakenly attack liver cells.
Genetic Factors: Genetic factors can play a role in determining an individual's susceptibility to certain liver diseases, such as hemochromatosis and Wilson's disease.
Also Read: Incorporate These Liver-Friendly Habits For A Healthy Liver
Preventive Measures To Be Taken
Here are some suggestions by Dr Payagude to keep liver health issues at bay:
- Limit alcohol consumption: It is better to avoid if not limit. Men should limit consumption to two drinks at max whereas for women, it is one drink max in a day.
- Adopt a balanced and nutritious diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Minimise your consumption of processed foods, sugary snacks, and high-fat meals.
- Ensure you are up to date on vaccinations, especially for hepatitis A and B, to prevent viral infections that can affect the liver.
- Always take medications as prescribed and avoid overusing or combining medications that can stress the liver.
- Schedule regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor your liver health and catch any potential issues early.
Summing up, it is important to understand and address the risk factors through lifestyle changes, vaccinations, and regular medical check-ups are crucial steps in maintaining optimal liver health and preventing the onset of liver diseases. Always remember, the liver is a resilient organ, but consistent care is necessary to maintain its optimal function. If you have specific concerns about your liver health or any existing medical conditions, consult a healthcare professional for personalised guidance.
References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK545201/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3012579/