One Warm Cup Before Bed: Improve Sleep & Detox Your Liver | Dr. Mandell

Fatty Liver Disease and Liver Functions

Fatty liver disease occurs when fat builds up in the liver, hindering its ability to effectively remove toxins from the bloodstream. Obesity is the leading cause, and with obesity rates doubling in the U.S. over the past decade, cases of fatty liver disease have also increased. While it can affect children and young adults, it is most common in middle-aged individuals.

Key Functions of the Liver:
Bile Production:

Bile aids in breaking down and absorbing fats, cholesterol, and certain vitamins in the small intestine.
It contains bile salts, cholesterol, bilirubin, electrolytes, and water.
Bilirubin Metabolism:

The liver processes bilirubin, a byproduct of hemoglobin breakdown.
Iron from hemoglobin is stored in the liver or bone marrow to produce new blood cells.
Blood Clot Support:

The liver produces bile, which is crucial for absorbing vitamin K, a key component in forming clotting factors.
Insufficient bile production can hinder blood clotting.
Fat Metabolism:

Bile breaks down fats, making them easier to digest.
Carbohydrate Metabolism:

The liver stores carbohydrates as glycogen, releasing glucose into the bloodstream to maintain energy and blood sugar levels.
Vitamin and Mineral Storage:

Stores vitamins A, D, E, K, B12, and iron in the form of ferritin.
Acts as a reserve for several years’ worth of essential vitamins and minerals.
Protein Metabolism:

Bile helps digest proteins for the body’s use.
Blood Filtration:

Removes compounds such as hormones (estrogen and aldosterone), alcohol, and drugs.
Immune Function:

Kupffer cells in the liver destroy harmful agents that enter through the gut, supporting immunity.
Albumin Production:

Produces albumin, a key blood serum protein that transports fatty acids and steroid hormones while maintaining blood vessel integrity.
Angiotensinogen Synthesis:

Produces angiotensinogen, a hormone that increases blood pressure by narrowing blood vessels in response to kidney signals.