The liver is an important organ located in the right upper portion of the abdomen. It is also the largest gland in the body. It is a gland because it secretes bile. The liver detoxifies the body of ingested drugs, harmful chemicals and alcohol. It breaks down and stores carbohydrates. The liver stores cholesterol and regulates cholesterol levels in the blood. In addition to its digestive functions, the liver produces albumin and blood clotting factors. It eliminates harmful byproducts, such as bilirubin and ammonia.
Bile production
The liver manufactures bile, which is a yellow-green liquid that aids in the digestion of fats. Bile is made up of cholesterol, bile salts, bilirubin, water, potassium and sodium. Bilirubin is a reddish-yellow pigment that results from the breakdown of hemoglobin. The biliary system is comprised of the gallbladder and bile ducts inside and outside the liver. During the digestive process, bile is released by the gallbladder and travels through the common bile duct to the duodenum, or first part of the small intestine. Bile is essential in the digestion and absorption of fats and fat-soluble vitamins.
Glycogen storage
Glucose is the result of the breakdown of carbohydrates. Following a meal, the liver stores extra glucose as glycogen. When blood sugar levels drop, the liver releases glycogen into the bloodstream. During periods of fasting, the liver has a unique function. The liver can activate enzymes to convert amino acids and complex carbohydrates into glucose.
Metabolism of Fats
The liver combines triglycerides, which come from fats or carbohydrates, with oxygen to produce energy. Most lipoproteins, which are made of proteins and fat, are produced in the liver. The liver changes extra carbohydrates and proteins into fatty acids and triglycerides. These substances leave the liver and are stored in fatty tissue. The liver produces cholesterol; some is sent to the body, and the remainder is eliminated in bile.
Elimination of Harmful Byproducts
A function of the liver is to process the nutrients absorbed by the small intestines.
The liver converts ammonia that is produced from the digestion of proteins to urea. Urea is a less harmful form of the waste product of protein metabolism.
