Commentary, J Liver Disease Transplant Vol: 12 Issue: 3

Importance of Liver Health and its Function

Yong Pedro^*

¹Department of Animal Science, University of Minnesota, Minnesota, USA

*Corresponding Author:Yong Pedro,
Department of Animal Science, University of Minnesota, Minnesota, USA
E-mail: pedro.y@gmail.com

Received date: 02 September, 2023, Manuscript No. JLDT-23-117627;

Editor assigned date: 04 September, 2023, PreQC No. JLDT-23-117627 (PQ);

Reviewed date: 18 September, 2023, QC No. JLDT-23-117627;

Revised date: 25 September, 2023, Manuscript No. JLDT-23-117627 (R);

Published date: 05 October, 2023, DOI: 10.4172/2325-9612.1000239.

Citation: Pedro Y (2023) Importance of Liver Health and its Function. J Liver Disease Transplant 12:3.

Description

The liver, a small organ located inside the ribs, plays an irreplaceable role in overall health and well-being. It is frequently referred to as the body's chemical factory; the liver is an intricately designed organ responsible for an array of essential functions that are essential for existence. This significant organ is involved in processes ranging from detoxification to digestion and metabolism.

Anatomy of the liver

The liver, the largest internal organ in the human body, is a reddish-brown, wedge-shaped structure located in the upper-right quadrant of the abdomen. It typically weighs around 3 pounds in adults. The liver is composed of two main lobes, the right and left lobes, which are further divided into smaller lobes and segments. A fibrous layer called the Glisson's capsule surrounds it, anchoring the liver to adjacent structures and protecting it from injury. Within this intricate organ lies a dense network of blood vessels and bile ducts. Blood is supplied to the liver through the hepatic artery and portal vein, which transport oxygen-rich blood and nutrient-rich, deoxygenated blood, respectively. The liver's unique dual blood supply ensures it receives a constant flow of nutrients while also allowing it to filter out harmful substances from the blood. The liver's basic structural unit is the hepatic lobule, a hexagonal structure composed of hepatocytes. Hepatocytes are the liver's primary functional cells and are responsible for most of its metabolic activities.

Functions of the liver

Liver disease can arise from various functions, including:

Detoxification: The liver is a master detoxifier, breaking down and eliminating harmful substances from the body. It neutralizes and processes toxins, drugs, alcohol, and metabolic waste products. The liver transforms many of these substances into water-soluble compounds that can be excreted through urine or bile.

Metabolism: The liver is integral to metabolism, playing an essential role in the conversion of nutrients from the food various essential molecules. It metabolizes carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, maintaining blood sugar levels and regulating cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

Bile Production: Bile generation is one of the liver's main functions, a greenish-yellow fluid essential for digestion. Bile is stored in the gallbladder and released into the small intestine to help emulsify and break down fats, aiding in their absorption.

Protein synthesis: The liver is a prolific manufacturer of proteins, including blood-clotting proteins (such as fibrinogen), albumin, and various enzymes that are essential for normal body function. It also plays an important role in the synthesis of amino acids, the building blocks of proteins.

Storage: The liver serves as a storage respiratory for various nutrients and vitamins. It stores glycogen, a complex sugar that can be immediately converted into glucose when the body needs an energy boost. Additionally, the liver stores certain fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) and iron.

Immune function: Kupffer cells, a type of immune cell located within the liver, Pathogens in the blood are filtered and destroyed, contributing to the body's total immunological response.

Maintaining liver health

Because of the liver's durability and regenerating potential, mild injuries and damage can be obtained completely. However, it is essential to maintain preventative measures. Here are some main techniques:

Maintain a balanced diet: Consume a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while limiting the consumption of processed food products, saturated fats, and sugars. Maintaining hydrated is also essential.

Exercise regularly: Regular physical activity can help to manage body weight and reduce the risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

Limit alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to liver damage. It is important to consume alcohol in moderation or avoid if patients have liver disease.