The liver is the second-largest organ in the body behind the skin. It helps the body digest food, store energy, and filter out toxins. Liver disease can occur due to many possible sources – basically, any condition that can damage the liver can cause or contribute to liver disease. Hepatitis A, B, and C are common causes. Heavy drinking and drug use are common causes of fatty liver disease (a buildup of fat in the liver) and cirrhosis (scarring) of the liver. Genetics can predispose a person ... [Read More]
liver damage
What Causes Liver Disease?
Did you know that your liver is the largest internal organ of your body? Your liver is responsible for a multitude of different jobs in the body, including metabolic, detoxification, and functional processes. The major function of your liver is to produce bile, which is then stored in your gallbladder and used to help break down food during digestion. Your liver kills germs that enter your body through the intestinal tract. Your liver is also responsible for metabolizing items that pass ... [Read More]
How Alcohol Affects Your Digestive System
Here’s a toast to those who either drink in moderation or don’t drink at all. By drinking, of course, we’re talking about the consumption of alcoholic beverages. Why does it matter? Because consuming alcohol can damage your digestive system and can increase your risk of cancer and liver disease. How Your Digestive System Processes Alcohol Your digestive system includes more than just your stomach and intestines. It also includes your mouth, throat, esophagus, liver, pancreas, and anus. Each ... [Read More]
Can Medication Cause Liver Damage?
With the help of enzymes, the liver metabolizes food into nutrients for the body, converts toxins into harmless substances and helps eliminate waste from the body. With a fully functional liver the body metabolism is balanced and works efficiently. However, various factors can throw the system out of gear and cause dangerous liver problems and damage, including drugs and dietary supplements. Studies show that more cases of acute liver failure are caused by prescription and over-the-counter ... [Read More]
Hep C: Speaking Out About “The Silent Killer”
According to HepCHope.com, a staggering 1 in 30 Baby Boomers has Hepatitis C. That’s 3.2 million people. These numbers are just an estimate, as many affected people are unaware due to the disease’s dormant symptoms; most don’t become perceptible until many years after being infected. The most chronic blood-borne infection in the United States, Hep C can lead to severe liver damage, cancer – and even death if left untreated. As a precaution, the Centers for Disease Control is advising all ... [Read More]
