Liver Disorders: Most Effective Dietary Supplements

The liver is a vital multifunctional organ, playing a central role in metabolism, detoxification, and maintaining the body's energy homeostasis. Structure and Blood Flow in the Liver: The liver is organized into units called lobules, consisting of specialized cells called hepatocytes. These cells are arranged around sinusoids, capillaries that receive blood from the portal veins and hepatic arteries. This arrangement allows for an organization where each area (from inlet to outlet) specializes in specific functions. Energy Metabolism: The liver regulates blood glucose levels through glycogenolysis (release of glucose) and gluconeogenesis (synthesis of glucose). It is also responsible for the synthesis and degradation of fatty acids to meet energy needs, especially during prolonged fasting periods. Protein Synthesis and Transformation: The liver produces essential proteins such as albumin, coagulation factors, and proteins involved in inflammatory response. It also plays a key role in the urea cycle, removing toxic ammonia produced by amino acid metabolism. Biotransformation and Detoxification: Hepatocytes transform liposoluble toxic compounds (drugs, alcohol, toxins) into water-soluble substances eliminated via bile or urine. This process occurs in two phases: first, toxic substances are modified to become more reactive (phase I), then they are combined with other molecules that make them easier to eliminate by the body (phase II). Bile Production and Secretion: The liver produces bile, essential for the emulsification and absorption of dietary fats. Bile also contains metabolic waste such as bilirubin, resulting from the breakdown of red blood cells. Immune Function: Kupffer cells, macrophages residing in the liver, filter the blood to remove bacteria, foreign particles, and damaged blood cells. The liver also plays a role in the production and recycling of immunoglobulins.

Liver Disorders

Among the most common consequences of liver dysfunction is an accumulation of toxins in the blood, leading to symptoms like fatigue, mental confusion, and neurological disorders. Chronic liver failure can lead to jaundice, due to the accumulation of bilirubin, and coagulation disorders due to insufficient production of clotting factors. Common liver-related diseases include hepatic steatosis (accumulation of fat in the liver), often related to poor diet or excessive alcohol consumption, as well as hepatitis, an inflammation of the liver that can be viral, alcoholic, or drug-induced. Cirrhosis, an advanced stage of liver damage, is marked by fibrosis and irreversible loss of liver function, with increased risks of liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma). Some pathologies, such as biliary diseases, are related to the liver's role in the production and excretion of bile. Gallstones can block bile ducts, leading to severe pain and infections. The prevention and management of liver diseases require early detection through regular check-ups and a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, limited alcohol intake, and regular physical activity. Strict medical monitoring is necessary for individuals with risk factors such as obesity, diabetes, or prolonged exposure to toxins.