Long Live the Liver
A human liver is pretty amazing for a lot of reasons, but it has one trick that borders on the miraculous: it is the only human organ capable of regenerating damaged tissue.
It’s actually a little more impressive than that. A liver can fully regenerate up to 75% of damaged tissue. And, it can do so in fairly quick order. Size can double in as little as three to four weeks through a process that is very similar to the embryonic stage of liver development.
Scientists are fond of saying this is simple process, but even though they can explain it and identify what triggers it, they’re still unclear on exactly how it happens at the cellular level.
What is important, though, is that it does happen, especially considering the effects of alcohol on the liver after prolonged exposure.
The link between alcohol and liver disease was identified more than 200 years ago. Now, it is further known that alcohol contributes to the development of hepatitis and cirrhosis. These diseases are well-known for damaging the liver beyond repair if steps are not taken to alleviate the damaging effects of alcohol.
The easiest way to achieve this is to strictly monitor alcohol consumption. Large quantities of alcohol have a toxic effect on the liver, and contributing factors such as genetics, gender, weight and general health play a role in the ability of a liver to put up a good fight.
Your liver is amazing, but to keep it amazing – that is, capable of regenerating healthy tissue – it is critical to practice responsible alcohol consumption. That is why we recommend taking a “drinking break” in our healthy drinking tips article.
Of course, I should remind everyone that our blog entries are for your information only and are not intended as medical advice. Because everyone is different, you should work with your medical professional to determine what’s best for you. Our product, drinkwel, does not prevent liver disease or any disease whatsoever, but is a useful multi-vitamin for those who choose to drink alcohol. If you’re going to drink, do it legally and responsibly; don’t be stupid =).
