The human body contains vital organs that carry out functions essential for life. Among the most important of our structures is the liver.

Why is the liver important? Where is it in your body? This large organ sits behind the rib cage in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen.

But, what does it do?

Important Functions of the Liver

Plain and simple, without a functioning liver, you would die. This probably leaves you wondering how one organ can make such a big impact.

Keep reading to learn the major functions of the liver.

Detoxification

You constantly encounter toxins that could potentially harm your other organs or make you sick. The liver protects your body by converting toxins into waste products as they pass through, like a top of the line filtration system.

For instance, as the body breaks down amino acids, which we need, a harmful byproduct called ammonia forms. The liver turns this toxin into urea and sends it to the kidneys to flow out in the urine.

The liver also allows people to enjoy moderate amounts of alcohol by breaking down the poisonous component, acetaldehyde into harmless acetate. Without the liver, alcohol would kill you.

Those two examples only give you a peek at how your liver protects you. This organ works tirelessly to filter your blood from all sorts of harmful compounds.

Metabolizes Nutrients

The liver creates a greenish fluid called bile and sends it out into the digestive tract. The bile salts help us to break down and absorb both fat and vitamins A, D, E, and K, in the small intestine. 

Protein metabolism also requires bile for the breakdown. In order to maintain blood glucose levels, the liver also breaks down carbohydrates and sends them into the bloodstream. 

Immunity

To protect the body against infection, the liver sends hepatocytes out into the blood. This aids in innate, or non-specific immunity.

Storage

Your liver serves as a storage tank for important nutrients. It holds onto excess vitamins A, D, E, K, and B12 and stores glucose in the form of glycogen.

When chemoreceptors sense low levels of these nutrients, the liver will release them for usage. This allows you to live for a long time without access to food. 

Protecting Your Liver

To protect the organ that always protects you: