The Role of the Liver in the Human Body: Functions and Importance

The liver is one of the most important organs in the human body, playing a crucial role in maintaining overall health and wellbeing. Located in the upper right side of the abdomen, the liver is the largest internal organ and gland, performing multiple functions essential for life. Despite its importance, many people are unaware of how vital this organ is until it becomes damaged or diseased. Understanding the Structure of the Liver The liver is a reddish-brown, wedge-shaped organ weighing about 1.5 kilograms in adults. It is located just below the diaphragm and above the stomach, protected by the rib cage. The liver has two main lobes – the right lobe and the left lobe – which are further divided into smaller lobes. It receives blood from two sources: oxygen-rich blood from the hepatic artery and nutrient-rich blood from the portal vein coming from the digestive organs. Major Functions of the Liver The liver carries out more than 500 functions, making it one of the most hardworking or...