Function of the LiverA healthy liver does the following: - It regulates the composition of blood, including
the amounts of glucose (sugar), protein, and fat that enter the
bloodstream.
- It removes bilirubin and other toxins from the blood.
Bilirubin is a by-product of the breakdown of red blood cells.
- It
processes most of the nutrients absorbed by the intestines during digestion and
converts those nutrients into forms that can be used by the body. The liver
also stores some nutrients such as vitamin A, iron, and other
minerals.
- It makes cholesterol, vitamin A, substances that help
blood clot, and certain proteins.
The picture shows the organs of the digestive system, including the liver. ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical ReviewerE. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical ReviewerW. Thomas London, MD - Hepatology Current as ofMarch 3, 2017 Current as of:
March 3, 2017 Author:
Healthwise Staff Medical Review:
E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine & Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine & W. Thomas London, MD - Hepatology |
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