The liver is the largest organ found inside the human body that contributes to general health and maintains the healthiness of the whole body. This kidney bean-shaped body that weighs around 1.5 kilograms, which is greater than 3 pounds, is set in place in the upper right quadrant of the abdominal cavity. Thus, this key gland supports the digestive system and many metabolic activities.
The liver consists of two lobes that are again further divided into eight segments. It is rather special in that it can regenerate itself if ever damaged or partially taken out to perform surgery. Therefore, it is a very vital organ, and care must be taken to ensure its good health. Consult liver specialists in Ranchi as the liver is essential for overall well being, and prevention of serious health complications and diseases.
Key Liver Functions
A liver doctor in Ranchi explained that the liver performs over 500 functions, which is indispensable in the human body, and therefore, a regular medical health checkup is essential to prevent any illness. The principal function of the liver is detoxification; hence, it plays a filter role by cleansing the blood of toxins in order to try to preserve a balanced chemical environment. It further secretes bile, which aids in the digestion and assimilation of fats. Apart from these, the liver also metabolises and breaks down drugs and chemicals into their nontoxic forms. In this way, the body can easily dispose of wastes from metabolism. The following are some of the main functions of the liver:
- Production of Bile: The more the body requires the substance, the more it produces, breaking down and digesting fats and lipids.
- Energy Storage: The liver is a carbohydrate storage organ, converting these into glucose that is used as an energy supply on demand.
- Regulate Blood Clotting: The liver produces the necessary proteins required for blood clotting.
- Vitamin and Mineral Storage: The liver stores important vitamins such as A, D, E, K, and B12, as well as minerals like copper, for use when needed by the body.
Know the Signs of an Unhealthy Liver
If the liver is unhealthy, it will give apparent symptoms, indicating that it requires urgent attention. Symptoms of liver disease include the yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice), muscle weakness, nausea, fever, headaches, dark-coloured urine, diarrhoea, dry mouth, and vomiting. Continued ignoring of these signs might lead to the health status of the liver getting worse, leading to many unhealthy diseases affecting the overall body.
Prevention of Liver Diseases
Liver diseases, including hepatitis, cirrhosis, liver cancer, and fatty liver disease, can be tragic if not addressed. Prevention by lifestyle choices may significantly improve the health of the liver and minimise one’s chances of chronic liver issues. Below are how you can protect your liver:
- Less Consumption of Alcohol: Overconsumption of alcohol is one of the major causes of liver disease, especially fatty liver and cirrhosis.
- Maintaining a Good Diet: Balanced intake of all nutrients, with less processed food, will support the good function of the liver.
- High-Fiber Foods: Fresh fruits and vegetables are good for the liver. Intake of foods like grapes, radishes, carrots, amla, papaya, and green tea are favourable for health-related functions in the liver.
- Avoid Processed and Sugary Foods: Reducing foods containing sugar, salt, and undesirable fats cuts down on the work going on inside the liver.
- Staying Active and Hydrated: Exercise and drinking plenty of water will help to support the detoxification system of the liver and aid in good overall health.
Conclusion
All the functions and the central role detoxification plays in this important organ dictate that the maintenance of its health is fundamental. Conscious lifestyle choices such as reduction in alcohol intake, nutrient-rich diets, hydration, and exercise will only lead to optimal functioning of your liver. By visiting a liver specialist for regular checkups, problems would be detected at the early stages before they could spring up. These precautionary measures will promise a healthy liver as part of one’s general welfare and serve as a path to healthy living.
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