The liver lies on the right side of the abdominal cavity beneath the diaphragm. It is the largest glandular organ of the body and is divided into 4 lobes of unequal size and shape.
The liver receives blood from the hepatic artery and portal vein. The hepatic vein transports oxygen-rich blood to the liver, while the portal vein collects blood containing digested nutrients from the gastrointestinal system, spleen, and pancreas. These two blood vessels disperse into smaller capillaries which then lead into the functional lobules of the liver.
The liver has many functions, including the following:
• Produces substances that break down fats (such as bile)
• Converts glucose to glycogen
• Produces urea (the main substance of urine)
• Makes certain amino acids (the building blocks of proteins)
• Filters harmful substances from the blood (such as alcohol)
• Stores vitamins and minerals (vitamins A, K, and B12)
• Maintains a proper level of glucose in the blood
• Produces cholesterol
Several disease states can affect the liver. Some of these are Wilson’s disease, hepatitis (an inflammation of the liver), liver cancer, and cirrhosis (a chronic inflammation that progresses ultimately to organ failure). Alcohol alters the metabolism of the liver, which can have overall detrimental effects if it is consumed over long periods of time. Hemochromatosis can also cause liver problems.
Further Reading:
Liver Function, Structure, and Health Tips
Detoxification System Structure Function and Health Tips
11 Ways to Detoxify Your Body Daily