The liver is a vital organ with a wide range of essential functions that keep the body healthy. It is the largest internal organ and sits in the upper right side of the abdomen, beneath the rib cage. Here’s what the liver does:
1. Detoxification:
- The liver filters and removes toxins, drugs, alcohol, and harmful substances from the blood. It converts these substances into less harmful forms or prepares them for elimination.
2. Metabolism of Nutrients:
- The liver processes nutrients absorbed from the digestive tract:
- Carbohydrates: Converts excess glucose into glycogen for storage and releases glucose when energy is needed.
- Proteins: Breaks down amino acids and produces urea, which is excreted in urine.
- Fats: Breaks down and stores fats, and produces bile to aid fat digestion.
3. Bile Production:
- The liver produces bile, a greenish fluid that helps digest and absorb fats and fat-soluble vitamins in the small intestine.
4. Storage:
- The liver stores important substances, including:
- Glycogen (energy storage)
- Vitamins (A, D, E, K, and B12)
- Minerals (iron and copper)
5. Protein Synthesis:
- The liver produces proteins essential for the body, such as:
- Albumin: Helps maintain blood pressure and fluid balance.
- Clotting factors: Essential for blood clotting.
6. Regulation of Blood Composition:
- Maintains balance in blood sugar, cholesterol, and hormone levels.
7. Immune Function:
- The liver contains Kupffer cells that help fight infections by breaking down bacteria and other pathogens in the blood.
8. Processing and Excretion:
- Helps eliminate waste products such as bilirubin (a byproduct of red blood cell breakdown) and ammonia (from protein metabolism).
The liver is remarkably resilient and can regenerate itself, but chronic damage from conditions like hepatitis, alcohol abuse, or fatty liver disease can lead to liver failure. Maintaining a healthy diet, avoiding excessive alcohol, and regular check-ups are key to liver health.
