Liver

The liver is the largest gland in the human body; it weighs about 1.5 kg and is brownish-brown in color. This is one of the organs of the body that performs the largest number of functions, so it can be considered as a laboratory necessary for life: it filters and purifies the blood, accumulates glucose in the form of glycogen, into which part of the food is converted, and, most importantly, produces bile.

The liver is divided into two lobes: right and left. Under a microscope, it can be seen that the liver consists of lobules - functional units of liver tissue located around a central vein.

The liver is an organ vital for digestion, as it produces one of the digestive juices - bile. Bile is produced in the liver and collected in the gallbladder, from where it passes into the intestines. Bile emulsifies fats, speeding up their digestion.

In addition to producing bile, the liver plays an important role in metabolism - the accumulation and transformation of sugars, the synthesis of plasma proteins. It also detoxifies harmful substances.

If liver function is impaired, a disease develops - jaundice, in which the skin acquires a yellowish tint due to the accumulation of bile pigments.

Liver: History, Functions and Health of the Organ

The liver, also known as hepar, pna, bna or jna, is one of the most important organs in the human body. It performs many functions and plays a key role in overall human health. In this article, we will look at the history, functions, and importance of liver health.

The history of the liver goes back to ancient medicine. In ancient times, the liver was believed to be the center of human life and emotions. Physicians and philosophers of antiquity classified the liver as one of the four main vital organs, along with the heart, lungs and brain. They believed that the liver controlled digestion, produced blood, and regulated a person's emotional state.

Modern science confirms the importance of the liver and its many functions. The liver is the largest internal organ in humans and is located in the upper right part of the abdomen, under the diaphragm. It performs more than 500 different functions, including:

1. Processing Food: The liver plays a key role in processing food that enters the body. It helps break down carbohydrates, proteins and fats, turning them into energy and other essential nutrients.

2. Bile production: The liver produces bile, which helps in the digestion process, especially in the breakdown of fats.

3. Metabolism: The liver plays an important role in metabolism. It metabolizes and stores vitamins, minerals and other beneficial substances, and removes toxins and waste from the blood.

4. Glycogen Storage: The liver serves as a reservoir for glycogen, which is a form of energy storage. When the body needs additional energy, the liver breaks down glycogen and releases it as glucose into the blood.

5. Protein synthesis: The liver plays an important role in protein synthesis, including blood proteins needed for blood clotting and immune defense.

Liver health is critical to the overall health of the body. Some common liver-related problems include fatty liver, hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, and liver cancer. To maintain liver health, it is helpful to follow these guidelines:

1. Eating well: Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, healthy fats and proteins helps maintain liver health. Limiting your intake of fatty and processed foods is also important.

2. Moderate alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption can cause liver damage. Moderate consumption or avoidance of alcohol is recommended to maintain liver health.

3. Physical Activity: Regular physical activity promotes overall health of the body, including the liver. It helps control weight, improves metabolism and reduces the risk of developing fatty liver degeneration.

4. Avoiding Toxins: Try to avoid exposure to toxic substances and chemical pollutants that can harm the liver. This includes using protective equipment when working with chemicals and avoiding prolonged exposure to contaminated areas.

5. Regular medical checkups: Regular checkups and examinations allow early detection of potential liver problems. Call your doctor if you have symptoms such as fatigue, jaundice, stomach pain, or changes in appetite.

The liver is an essential organ responsible for many important functions in the body. Maintaining her health through proper nutrition, moderate alcohol consumption, physical activity and avoiding exposure to toxins is important for overall well-being and longevity.