The Liver: Functions and Facts

The Liver: Our Body's Powerhouse

The liver, often referred to as our body's powerhouse, is the largest gland in the human body and plays a crucial role in maintaining our overall health. It is responsible for numerous vital functions, including digestion, nutrient absorption, metabolism, protein production, hormonal regulation, and detoxification.

Structure of the Liver

The liver is roughly triangular in shape and weighs about 1.5 kilograms. It consists of two lobes: a larger right lobe and a smaller left lobe, which are separated by the falciform ligament. The liver is covered by a layer of fibrous tissue called Glisson's capsule, followed by the peritoneum, a membrane that lines the abdominal cavity, helping to hold it in place.

Functions of the Liver

Digestive Role

The liver synthesizes bile, an alkaline fluid containing bile salts, cholesterol, bilirubin, electrolytes, and water. Bile helps to break down fats, cholesterol, and some vitamins in the small intestine, facilitating their absorption. During a meal, the gallbladder releases bile into the small intestine to assist with fat digestion and absorption.

Metabolic Functions

Carbohydrate, fat, and protein metabolism all require inputs from the liver, which stores glucose when it is abundant and releases it when needed, ensuring a steady energy supply for the body. The liver converts fats into an energy source, breaking down proteins into amino acids and converting them back into glucose, fats, or proteins as required. Additionally, the liver is responsible for the synthesis of cholesterol and regulates cholesterol levels within the body.

Detoxification

One of the most critical roles of the liver is detoxifying harmful substances. Whether ingested, injected, touched, breathed, or otherwise encountered, potentially toxic substances are broken down and prevented from accumulating in the body, thus preventing waste product buildup.

Regenerative Properties of the Liver

Incredibly, the liver has the ability to regenerate itself. If at least 25% of the healthy liver remains, it can become whole again, even after substantial damage. This remarkable capacity allows the liver to recover from injuries and diseases such as hepatitis or cirrhosis.

Facts About the Liver

• A healthy liver filters approximately 1.7 liters of blood per minute.
• It contains 300 billion specialized cells known as hepatocytes.
• As far back as 400 BC, the importance of bile was recognized.
• The liver produces up to one liter of bile per day; however, only around 600 ml reaches the small intestine.
• During pregnancy, the liver increases in size and weight to accommodate changing metabolic demands.
• At any given moment, the liver holds about 13% of the body’s blood supply.

Maintaining Liver Health

To keep the liver working optimally, it is recommended to maintain a balanced diet, avoid excessive alcohol consumption, not smoke tobacco, exercise caution with medications and natural remedies, protect against airborne chemicals, travel safely, practice safe sex, and avoid exposure to blood and germs.