Liver diseases in older adults – prevention, nutrition, advice
Katarzyna Mazur
2026-03-16
7 min. read
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The liver plays a vital role in the body, enabling it to function smoothly, hence its protection should be of utmost importance. However, it often is subjected to harmful influences. Lack of proper care for the liver can result in the development of numerous diseases. It is essential to understand which factors have a negative impact on its functioning and also to familiarize oneself with those that can aid in its regeneration.
The role of the liver as the largest organ in the human body
The liver is the largest organ in the human body, weighing around 1.3 kg in women and 1.5 kg in men. It is located under the diaphragm, in the right hypochondrium, and plays a crucial role in maintaining normal body functions. The liver's functions include: - detoxification, i.e., converting harmful substances in the blood (e.g., alcohol, ammonia) into harmless compounds, - metabolism of drugs, - production of bile, which is necessary for digesting fats and can be stored in the gallbladder, - participation in metabolic processes, - storage of blood, - regulation of blood sugar levels by taking in blood from the intestine, where amino acids and sugars are absorbed, - storage of vitamin reserves - A, D, B-group, synthesis and storage of proteins, - production of prothrombin and fibrinogen, which are necessary for normal blood clotting, - production of heparin, a blood-thinning factor, - participation in thermoregulation, i.e., maintaining body temperature at an appropriate level to prevent overheating or cooling of the body, - participation in immune processes - the liver contains special cells (macrophages) that remove harmful particles entering the liver with the blood. Subsequently, cytokines are produced, which are essential for an appropriate immune response.
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