The liver and oxidative stress

Our liver is capable of self-regeneration; however, this process can be overwhelmed if free radical attack is constant or if viruses inflict severe damage.

Our liver performs over 500 different functions and is made up of millions of tiny cells called hepatocytes. These hepatocytes contain abundant mitochondria and require a constant supply of oxygen and energy to function properly. They are also vulnerable to oxidative stress. Fortunately, our liver is capable of self-regeneration; however, this process can be overwhelmed if free radical attack is constant or if viruses inflict severe damage. MitoQ is a targeted CoQ10 antioxidant that works directly inside mitochondria to help neutralize free radical production. When taken in conjunction with a healthy diet and regular exercise, MitoQ can help reduce oxidative stress.

Our liver is the largest internal gland in our body. Shaped like a cone, it is located beneath our diaphragm and sits on top of our stomach, right kidney and intestines. It consists of four lobes of unequal shape which are made up of thousands of lobules.

Lobules are small - roughly 2mm in size- and contain millions of hepatic cells called hepatocytes. Hepatocytes are a hexagonal shape and fit together like a honey comb. They are the workhorse of the liver and each one is capable of producing bile to aid digestion, as well as detoxifying, metabolizing, and synthesizing a variety of crucial substances

The liver receives a dual blood supply. The portal vein conducts oxygen-depleted blood from the stomach, intestines, spleen, gallbladder and pancreas to the liver. This blood is rich in nutrients and noxious materials absorbed in the intestine; blood cells and their breakdown products from the spleen; and hormones secreted by the pancreas. Oxygen rich blood is supplied to the liver from the hepatic artery.

In addition to oxygen, hepatocytes require a lot of energy to perform their many and varied functions, so it is no surprise that they contain abundant mitochondria. Mitochondria are responsible for the production of adenosine triphosphate or ATP which is the main form of energy used by our cells.

The production of ATP also results in the formation of by products such as free radicals. Free radicals are also produced by our immune system in response to infection, irritation, and allergy. The metabolism of alcohol and many medicines also generates free radicals. Usually, these free radicals are neutralized by our own body’s production of antioxidants, such as Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10). Oxidative stress occurs when our own supply of antioxidants is unable to keep up with the numbers of free radicals being produced.

Oxidative stress is associated with a wide variety of different serious health conditions, including many which affect the liver.

Fortunately, our liver has the capacity to regenerate. Symptoms of liver damage are usually not apparent until extensive, irreversible damage has been done. This may take many years or it may only take several months if the liver suffers acute damage.

The key to helping prevent long-term damage and to encourage liver rejuvenation is to decrease oxidative stress. We can do this by eating nutritious fresh vegetables and fruits, limiting our intake of processed and fried food, exercising regularly, avoiding toxic substances such as cigarette smoke, and by taking a supplemental CoQ10 antioxidant such as MitoQ.

Research supports taking MitoQ in conjunction with a healthy diet and regular exercise to reduce oxidative stress. So, take MitoQ today. Your liver will thank you for it!

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