The liver processes nutrients from the digestive system. It also removes toxins from the body, and produces a greenish-brown fluid known as bile that is required for digestion. There are a wide number of diseases that affect the liver. They range from chronic illnesses such as hepatitis and cirrhosis to acute conditions such as cancer or bile duct obstruction. Millions of Americans have both chronic and acute liver disease. Liver cancer, portal hypertension and bile duct obstruction are three of the most common liver diseases. The liver is the largest organ in the body and proper function is essential for life. You cannot live without your liver, as it converts food into stored energy and produces chemicals that are vital to life. The liver processes carbohydrates, proteins, fats and minerals that are used to maintain normal body functions. Carbohydrates are stored to maintain energy throughout the day. Proteins are released to the muscles as energy or are stored for later use. Some are converted and excreted through urine. Some proteins are transformed into ammonia that is broken down by the liver and excreted through the kidneys. Bile is produced in the liver and that helps break down fat that is stored in the gallbladder and released into the small intestine. Bile absorbs essential vitamins and after digestion and are returned to the liver and recycled. There are many types of liver disease and most causes are not known. However, poor nutrition has been attributed to a leading cause of liver disease. It is well known that good nutrition can in fact help the damaged liver to regenerate new liver cells. |
