One of the main functions of the liver is to ensure that all the tissues of the body receive the cholesterol and triglycerides they need to function optimally. To achieve this, the liver takes up dietary triglycerides and cholesterol from the bloodstream. When not enough is available it manufactures it’s own. The liver then packages the cholesterol and triglycerides, along with special proteins, into tiny spheres called lipoproteins. The lipoproteins are released into the circulation, and are delivered to the cells of the body. The cells remove the needed cholesterol and triglycerides from the lipoproteins, as they are needed.

Fatty liver is a condition is which large deposits of triglycerides form in the liver. It may be temporary or permanent. The condition is not harmful in itself, but may indicate a more serious problem. In severe cases, the liver can increase to over three times its normal size and may be painful and tender. The most common cause of fatty liver is alcoholism. The over-consumption of alcohol interferes with the way the liver breaks down and stores fat. Malnutrition, pregnancy and poisoning can also lead to this condition.