How well do you know your liver?

Unknown to many, the liver is one of the key organs in the body that performs many vital functions.

  		• An important protective organ, removing bacteria and foreign materials from the blood as it passes through the liver.
  		• Acts as a detoxifying agent for many medications and toxins, produces important blood proteins and metabolises carbohydrates, proteins and fats.
  		• Produces important blood proteins and other molecules.
  		• Stores iron, certain vitamins and eliminates old haemoglobin.
  		• Produces bile, a key substance that digests fats and helps in absorption of fat-soluble vitamins i.e. A, D, E and K.

    The liver is the only organ that regenerates itself. However, it is still susceptible to damage or diseases caused by negative environmental and lifestyle factors such as:

  		• Viral infections
  		• Excessive alcohol intake
  		• Environmental toxins
  		• Certain medications

    Does your liver need extra attention?

    People who should be especially careful about their liver health include those who:

  		• Eat fatty food and have a generally poor diet
  		• Have poor digestive function
  		• Need to lower their cholesterol levels
  		• Use oral contraceptives, Hormone Replacement Therapy or other hormonal drugs
  		• Drink alcohol on regular basis
  		• Are exposed to pesticides, solvents or other environmental pollutants
  		• Are trying to reduce body fat

    The second largest organ in the body - weighing almost the same as a football - the liver is ironically the least cared for and mostly go unnoticed until something went wrong. While there may be symptoms, without a medical check-up, most of us won't know if our livers are functioning properly. The possible signs and symptoms of a poorly functioning liver include:

  		•  Hepatitis A, B and C
  		• Cirrhosis or scarring of the liver, often resulting from excessive alcohol intake
  		• Skin pigmentation
  		• Eczema
  		• Dark circles under eyes
  		• Poor gall bladder function
  		• Constipation
  		• Fat intolerance
  		• Itchy skin

  • Feeling nauseas