What causes raised liver function?

We’ve all been there: you go to the doctor for a routine check-up and they tell you that your liver function tests have come back abnormal. What does this mean? And what causes raised liver function in the first place?

Well, never fear! We’re here to guide you through the wacky world of liver function and show you just how hilarious (and sometimes horrifying) it can be. So grab your lab coat and strap on those safety goggles – let’s dive in!

First Things First: Understanding Your Liver

Before we start looking at what causes raised liver function, it’s important to understand exactly what the liver does. Like a superhero with an impressive set of skills, your liver quietly works behind the scenes to keep your body running smoothly.

For starters, your liver is responsible for filtering out toxins from your blood stream so they don’t cause harm elsewhere in your body. It also produces bile which helps break down fats so that they can be easily absorbed by our digestive system.

In addition, did you know that our livers are capable of regenerating themselves? In fact, as long as at least 25% of the healthy tissue remains intact after injury or disease, our livers will eventually grow back to their normal size.

Pretty amazing stuff right?

What Causes Raised Liver Function?

Now that we’ve got some basic knowledge under our belts (or lab coats), let’s explore what actually causes raised liver function levels.

Alcohol Consumption

Surprise surprise, drinking too much alcohol is one main cause for elevated levels of enzyme ALT (ALanine Transaminase) in our bodies. This enzyme is released when the alcoholic content breaks down into substances such as acetaldehyde and acetate – which sounds more like chemistry than something edible!

If excessive intake occurs over time; alcohol-induced hepatitis can further damage or inflame tissues, which may lead to fibrosis, cirrhosis and irreversible liver impairment. Fortunately our enduring livers will switch into gear, slowly regenerate the damaged tissues and help you feel a bit better. That being said, it’s never wise to push your system this far.

Viral Infections

Another possible cause for raised liver function lies in viral infections such as Hepatitis B or Hepatitis C (not as fun as Vitamin B & C huh?) that have taken occupancy within our bodies – all thanks to unfortunate human-to-human bodily contact (that darn hepatitis). These viruses activate immune cells thereby initiating an inflammatory response that can lead to long stretches of infection without treatment culminating in strained liver functions(scary stuff indeed!).

Fatty Liver Disease

Naturally occurring fat called “lipid droplets” are found throughout healthy livers; however these lipid deposits can gather together increasing their numbers forming a clump – A fatty deposit, that prevents essential nutrient-spilling process from taking place( an inefficient production scenario!). Inability of the body to metabolise fats is one main proponent of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) leading directly onto higher than normal results for blood tests sent over after routine check-ups.

We’re getting serious now guys…….

Taking Care Of Your Liver

With all this information on what causes raised levels of enzymes etc., let’s consider how we could take great care henceforth.

  • Do not drink huge amounts of alcohol at once if indulging.
  • Limit intake: 1 drink/day for women and up to 2 drinks/day for men;
  • Make sure your diet includes healthy food with plenty fresh fruits/veggies,
    – avoid sugar rich meals/treats loaded with empty carbs /bad fats , Maintain regular exercise routine ;
    -Take good quality supplemental milk thistle herb formulas regularly monthly alongside anti-inflammatory diets to maintain liver health – it will be worth the trouble!

Closing Remarks

In conclusion, understanding what causes raised liver function involves knowing how our livers function, as well factors that affect their condition. Whether we drink an occasional beer or suffer from a viral infection, keeping track of our body’s behavior through regular check-ups along with healthy lifestyle is essential to ensuring that we don’t run into any unexpected complications.

So let’s all raise (water) glass for these superheroes of organ groups doing such impressive work unremarked in bloated bodies!

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