Liver! What you Know About It!

What is the Liver?

The liver, located on the right side of the body beneath the ribs, is a reddish-brown organ that plays an essential role in the body's metabolic processes. With an irregular shape, it measures approximately six inches in length and weighs around 1.5 kilograms, making it the largest internal organ by both weight and size.

Anatomy and Function

The liver is connected to the body’s circulatory system through two primary blood vessels:

• The Portal Vein: This brings blood rich in nutrients from the digestive system to the liver.
• The Hepatic Artery: This carries oxygenated blood to the liver from the heart.

In collaboration with other organs, the liver performs nearly 500 vital functions. It produces hormones, stores essential nutrients, detoxifies harmful substances, and filters waste from the bloodstream. Despite its complex structure, medical science has yet to create an artificial device capable of replacing the liver’s vast array of functions.

One fascinating aspect of the liver is its ability to regenerate. If a portion of it is removed or damaged, it can grow back to its original size. In fact, the liver is the only internal organ with this regenerative capability.

Mythological Origins of Liver Regeneration

The regenerative ability of the liver is not just a modern discovery. Ancient Greek mythology also recognised this unique trait. According to myth, the god Zeus punished Prometheus for giving fire to humanity by chaining him to a rock where an eagle would eat his liver every day. Each night, his liver would regenerate, and the process would repeat. This myth, long before the advent of medical science, alluded to the liver’s unique ability to heal and regenerate itself.

Liver Transplants and Regeneration in Modern Medicine

Liver transplantation is a life-saving procedure where a portion of a donor's liver is transplanted into a patient. Due to the liver’s regenerative capacity, donors can safely donate up to 60% of their liver, which will grow back to its full size within a few weeks. Even if up to 90% of the liver is removed, it can regenerate to its original mass. Medical experts emphasise that people should not fear donating part of their liver, as this remarkable organ heals just like hair growing back after a haircut.

The success rate for liver transplants, when performed timely, is exceptionally high—ranging from 90% to 95%.

Hepatitis: A Major Liver Health Concern

Hepatitis, commonly known as jaundice in Urdu, is the inflammation of the liver. It disrupts the liver’s ability to filter toxins and perform its other crucial functions, leading to severe health issues. The liver acts like a filter in the body, purifying blood from the digestive system before circulating it to the heart. When the liver is inflamed or damaged, it fails to filter toxins effectively, resulting in poor blood quality and a lack of energy for the body.

Hepatitis, particularly blood-borne hepatitis, is a major global health issue. In recognition of their groundbreaking work in the fight against hepatitis, scientists Harvey J. Alter, Michael Houghton, and Charles M. Rice were awarded the Nobel Prize. 

Foods That Promote Liver Health

Maintaining liver health is crucial, and certain foods can significantly aid in supporting liver function and protecting it from damage:

• Garlic: Considered a super-food, garlic contains allicin, a compound that helps protect the liver and lungs from toxins and environmental damage.
• Turmeric: Known for its medicinal properties, turmeric contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compound that benefits both liver and lung health.

In addition to a healthy diet, reducing alcohol consumption, avoiding excessive use of medications, and maintaining a balanced lifestyle are vital for preserving liver function and preventing conditions like hepatitis and liver cirrhosis.

The liver is an extraordinary organ, responsible for detoxifying the body, producing vital substances, and even regenerating itself when damaged. Whether through modern medicine’s understanding of liver transplants or the age-old myths that hinted at its healing powers, the liver continues to be central to human health. With proper care through diet, lifestyle, and medical awareness, liver health can be preserved, ensuring the body remains energised and toxin-free.