Functions of Liver
One of the main functions of the liver is assistance in digestion through production of digestive enzymes that are released into the small intestine. The liver also helps control the metabolism and works with the body's immune system to fight off harmful cells and substances that threaten the body. Other functions of liver includes that it destroys red blood cells, synthesizes urea to excrete nitrogenous waste, produce fibrinogen used in the process of blood coagulation, stores glycogen, intervenes in metabolism and storage of vitamins and produces among other things protective and anti-toxic substances. Liver plays a very important part in capturing, transforming and render harmless the toxic substances that one may get exposed by eating, drinking or breathing. The liver also helps the body digest fats by secreting bile that empties into the duodenum.
Liver Issues and Protection
Most common liver issues are due to exposure to toxins such as alcohol and because of viruses such as Hepatitis C, Hepatitis B and more. Other liver issue can be because of metabolic disorders and genetic abnormalities and cancer too. Diseases or disorders of the liver can affect the entire body and various functions and can result in kidney disorders, sexual disorders, issue such as extreme fatigue, jaundice, swelling of the abdomen area and more. The best way to protect the liver is to stay away from articles that cause liver damage. Protein in access can be harmful for the liver, thus use protein shakes and related drinks in moderation. Also avoid chemicals and toxins in food items thus avoid food products that contain dyes, artificial preservatives and artificial fats. Toxic substances such as alcohol, heavy metal pollutants such as mercury in fish also cause liver damage. Bile purifies the liver but excess fats interfere in this, so avoid excess consumption of fats and fried foods. Sugar is another culprit that hinders the functioning of the liver.
Natural Care Tips for Liver
The foremost tip to care for one’s liver is to consume a healthy and a balanced diet. Thus include ample amount of fresh fruits and vegetables in your daily diet. Usage of olive oil for cooking and natural exposure to the sun which provides Vitamin D to the body is also beneficial to the liver. Regular physical exercise prevents premature aging of the red blood cells and help in the functioning of the liver. One of the functions of liver is to destroy old red blood cells and send their compounds to the bone marrow for generation of new cells. For this purpose the liver uses ferritin, which is a form of iron. Thus including iron rich vegetables and food products in daily diet are good for functioning of ones’ liver. Food articles such as soy, yeast, corn, dandelion, asparagus, olive and more are good for the liver and one must include them regularly in diet.
One subscription. Two world-class reads.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors


Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share


Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor


Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements


Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app
)