What Is the Liver?
The liver is one of the most vital organs in the human body, performing more than 500 essential functions. It is not only an organ but also a gland, as it produces and secretes substances that are essential for digestion. Because of its critical role, any disease or infection affecting the liver can have serious consequences for overall health.
The liver is located in the upper right side of the abdomen, just beneath the diaphragm. It lies above the stomach, right kidney, and intestines and is protected by the lower ribs.
Location & Quick Facts
Upper Right
Sits in the upper right abdomen, beneath the diaphragm
2 Lobes
Made up of a right lobe and a left lobe
~1.5 kg
Average weight of a healthy adult liver
Rib Protected
Shielded by the lower ribs above the stomach and intestines
Functions of the Liver
The liver is responsible for producing, storing, processing, and detoxifying numerous substances essential for life.
What Does the Liver Produce?
It plays a central role in digestion and metabolism.
- Converts nutrients from food into energy
- Produces bile to digest fats & absorb vitamins
- Produces cholesterol & triglycerides
- Stores & releases glucose as glycogen
- Produces blood proteins like albumin
What Does the Liver Store?
It serves as the body's storage center, releasing nutrients whenever needed.
- Vitamins A, D, E, and B12
- Minerals such as iron and copper
- Glycogen, the stored form of glucose
- Produces clotting factors for wound healing
Detoxification
One of the liver's most important roles is cleansing the body of harmful substances.
- Alcohol
- Medications
- Environmental chemicals
- Toxins
Waste Processing & Metabolism
The liver helps the body eliminate waste products by:
- Converting ammonia into urea, excreted by the kidneys
- Processing bilirubin from old red blood cells
- Preventing jaundice caused by bilirubin build-up
Hormone Regulation
The liver helps regulate the levels of several hormones circulating in the blood, particularly sex hormones such as:
- Testosterone
- Estrogen
Immune Defense
The liver plays an important role in the body's immune system, helping remove bacteria, viruses, and other harmful microorganisms from the bloodstream to support the body's natural defenses.
Detoxification: The Liver's Cleansing Function
Although the liver can break down alcohol, excessive alcohol consumption can overwhelm its capacity and eventually lead to liver damage.
Similarly, taking medications without medical advice, using counterfeit or unapproved drugs, or combining multiple medications inappropriately can seriously harm the liver. Some medications are highly toxic to the liver and should only be taken under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional.
When bilirubin accumulates in the bloodstream, it causes jaundice, resulting in yellowing of the skin and eyes — a common sign of liver disease, including hepatitis.