Visibly Human Health and Disease in the Human Body
The Liver and Hepatic System
The liver is the largest gland in the body, weighing between 3 and 5 pounds. It has four lobes of different sizes and occupies a large portion of the upper right section of the abdomen, just under the ribs. The liver performs a wide range of vital functions.
Energy
The liver regulates sugar levels in the bloodstream and reacts quickly to changes in sugar concentrations. When sugar is digested, it is broken down into the simple sugar glucose. The glucose passes through the walls of the intestine into the bloodstream. Any glucose not immediately needed for energy is converted into glycogen by the liver and it is then stored in the muscles and liver where it remains until it is needed for energy production. The liver normally stores enough glycogen to meet the energy needs in the normal person for about 18 hours.
Synthesis
The liver synthesizes many substances including factors important in blood clotting and other proteins and antibodies. Proteins are added to the blood as it flows through the liver. The liver also produces bile, a dark green digestive fluid which is essential in the digestion of fats.
Storage
The liver also stores many of the products of digestion, including iron, copper and fat-soluble vitamins A, D and B-12.
Breakdown
Along with the spleen, the liver helps break down old red blood cells and recycle the reusable elements. The liver also breaks down other substances which are normally found in the body, like hormones and some proteins, to maintain a balance between their production and their elimination from the body.
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- Visibly Human Health and Disease in the Human Body
- The Cardiovascular System
- The Urinary System
- Respiratory System
- The Lymphatic System
- The Musculoskeletal System
- The Liver and Hepatic System
- The Digestive System
- The Brain and Nervous System
- Psychiatric Patients at Forest Glen
- Skeleton of Spanish American War Veteran Showing Evidence of Severe Arthritis