At the top right side of the abdominal cavity is the largest organ, which plays a key role in filtering blood, producing bile for digestion, and storing it. The organ is called the Liver. As much as it also has other numerous functions in the body, it is also prone to diseases. Therefore, it is a paramount responsibility of an individual to ensure that their Liver is healthy and functioning at its optimum level. Before you get to know how to take care of the Liver, it's also important to understand the main functions of the Liver.
What are the functions of the liver?
The Liver breaks down fat to produce energy: The Liver undergoes a process called beta-oxidation. The process involves converting fatty acids into Acetyl-CoA, which later on enters the citric acid cycle to produce ATP.
Breaks down germs and toxins: The Liver functions as the centre of detoxification, where enzymes, primarily from cytochrome P450, break down fatty-soluble toxins such as alcohol, drugs and environmental pollutants to make them more reactive chemicals and then the processed substances are joined with other molecules so that they become water-soluble. After this process, the by-products are now ready to be eliminated.
Make proteins: This process involves using genetic messenger RNA, which then moves to ribosomes, where they are changed into polypeptides.
Produces cholesterol: The Liver produces cholesterol by a regulatory enzyme, HMG CoA reductase, which converts HMG-CoA into mevalonate, and then, after some other reactions, converts the mevalonate into cholesterol
Helps to keep the blood glucose steady: after a person eats, the insulin hormones signal the liver to store glucose as glycogen, and when the energy is low, the stored glycogen turns back to glucose so that it can be released and used in the body.
Produces certain hormones: The Liver synthesises and secretes IGF-1, which is a protein hormone that stimulates growth and is essential for metabolism
How to take care of the Liver
There are many diseases that can affect the liver, such as hepatitis ABC, non alcoholic and alcoholic fatty liver diseases and autoimmune hepatitis. These liver diseases come with symptoms such as swelling in the abdomen and legs, nausea, fatigue, jaundice(yellowing of eyes), dark urine and pale stools. If you notice any of these symptoms, do not hesitate to reach out to the best liver doctor in Ludhiana. With all these dire diseases, it's important to know how they can be taken care of.
Exercise and eat Healthy: Focus on having whole foods and healthy diets, and healthy fats, and also maintaining a healthy weight to avoid other liver diseases. Ensure to have a regular exercise routine because it promotes overall body health that benefits the functionality of the liver.
Moderate intake of alcohol
Intake of alcohol can lead to cirrhosis, which damages the liver. Therefore, it's important to be cautious of alcohol intake for both men and women.
Practising safe sex: Unprotected sex can expose a person to sexually transmitted diseases such as Hepatitis C, which affects the liver.
Vaccinate: Ensure to vaccinate against diseases such as Hepatitis B and A, yellow fever and Malaria, which grow in the Liver
Conclusion
Even though the liver can be treated with medication and surgery, there is a better way to avoid these problems: taking care of yourself through a healthy diet and a good lifestyle. If you have consistency issues, ensure you have someone to help you maintain accountability for a healthy diet. Today, we have gastroenterologists in India and other non-governmental organisations (NGOs) that are mandated to provide free liver check-ups and consultations. Do not hesitate to seek treatment if you notice any symptoms.
