All about liver’s role ın the human body, including its functions and how to protect, support this vital organ, exploring its structure, functions, and role in the human body’s overall system.
Liver
liver is the largest internal organ in your body and one of the only organs that can regenerate itself. The liver plays a crucial role in filtering blood, storing energy and producing bile for digestion. The liver has two lobes (sections). The lobe on the right is slightly larger than the lobe on the left. Both lobes contain many blood vessels and thousands of smaller lobes (lobules) that are tiny clusters of liver cells (hepatocytes). Your liver is on the right side of your upper body. It’s located under your ribs, just next to your stomach.
What is the liver’s function and role?
Your liver’s biggest job is filtering harmful substances and waste from your blood. Every day, your liver filters more than 250 gallons of blood. It also: Makes cholesterol that your body uses in different ways, Works by breaking down fats in your blood to produce energy, and if there are too many, they may get stored as extra fat, and makes protein. The liver has two lobes (sections). The lobe on the right is slightly larger than the lobe on the left. Both lobes contain many blood vessels and thousands of smaller lobes (lobules) that are tiny clusters of liver cells (hepatocytes).
What are common signs and symptoms of liver problems?
Common early symptoms of liver problems include:
- Upper abdominal pain
- Nausea
- Your skin and eyes turning yellow
How can I take care of my liver?
To keep your liver healthy and functioning well, you can:
- Avoid infections
- Avoid excess toxins: If you drink beverages with alcohol, limit your drinks to one or two a day. If you use tobacco, try to quit and ask your healthcare provider for helpful resources. And be sure to use medications as directed. Avoid unnecessary herbal supplements.
- Eat well: Consider the Mediterranean diet, which focuses on whole foods and healthy fats. Maintaining a weight that’s healthy for you can also help to prevent metabolic liver disease.
Liver disease symptoms can be vague and may feel like many other diseases. Belly aches and nausea might mean stomach flu rather than liver disease. But stomach pain that doesn’t go away, unintended weight loss and jaundice (yellow eyes and skin) are reasons to contact a healthcare provider.
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