The Silent Organ: The Liver

The Silent Organ: The Liver

The liver, the largest organ in our body, is often referred to as the "silent organ." This is because it quietly remains silent until jaundice appears, or until it reaches a state that is beyond recovery.

 

The liver is the largest organ among our body's organs and plays a crucial role in our survival.

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Location and Functions of the Liver

It is located in the upper right part of the abdomen, below the diaphragm.

 

The liver is responsible for key functions such as carbohydrate metabolism, amino acid and protein metabolism, lipid metabolism, bile acid and bilirubin metabolism, vitamin and mineral metabolism, hormone metabolism, detoxification, and antibacterial action.

Liver Cirrhosis

Generally, the liver can regenerate itself even if it is damaged, maintaining its functions as needed. However, if over 70% is damaged, "cirrhosis" occurs (a condition where the liver gradually hardens and becomes difficult to recover).

 

In this case, complications often arise, including jaundice and ascites (fluid accumulation in the abdomen), and the risk of liver cancer increases.

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Leading Cause of Death Among Middle-Aged Men Aged 40-50: Liver Disease

In Korea, liver disease is the leading cause of death among middle-aged men in their 40s and 50s, posing a significant threat to their health. Although the prevalence of hepatitis B has decreased, it remains the primary cause of cirrhosis and liver cancer. Hepatitis C, alcoholic liver disease, and the increasingly recognized non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are also representative liver diseases that threaten liver health.

Prevention of Liver Disease

To prevent liver disease, correcting lifestyle habits and regular health checks are essential. Vaccinations against hepatitis A (two doses) and hepatitis B (three doses) can prevent hepatitis virus infections. Although there is currently no vaccine for hepatitis C, it can be completely cured with appropriate treatment. Therefore, it is advisable for adults to get tested for hepatitis C at least once in their lifetime.

Discovery Timing of Liver Cancer and Alcohol Abstinence

If liver cancer is detected early, the cure rate exceeds 50%. However, if detected in the late stages, about half of those afflicted die within 6 months to a year. Even weak alcoholic beverages like makgeolli (Korean rice wine) and beer can lead to alcoholic liver disease if consumed frequently and in large amounts. The extent of liver damage correlates with quantity rather than alcohol concentration. Men should not exceed three bottles of soju per week, and women should not exceed two bottles.

 

If one has chronic liver disease, abstaining from alcohol is advisable. The liver is responsible for detoxifying the medications we consume. Taking various medications indiscriminately, even those considered beneficial, can overwork the liver.

Dietary Guidelines for Liver Health

• Eat a variety of foods but avoid excessive consumption.
• Increase intake of brown rice, whole wheat flour, and mixed grains, and consume ample fiber-rich vegetable side dishes at every meal.
• Avoid bread products such as cakes and donuts, margarine, fried foods like French fries or chicken, and microwave popcorn, which are high in trans fats and can increase the risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
• Limit simple sugars found in juices, snacks, white bread, honey, syrup, and high-fructose corn syrup, as well as refined rice and flour, which can quickly turn into fat in the body and contribute to fatty liver.