what body system is the liver in

11 months ago 28
Nature

The liver is an organ located in the upper right-hand portion of the abdominal cavity, beneath the diaphragm, and on top of the stomach, right kidney, and intestines. It is part of the digestive system and plays an essential role in removing toxins from the blood, regulating blood sugar levels, and performing hundreds of other vital functions. The liver is the largest solid organ in the body, weighing about 3 pounds, and consists of two main lobes, both made up of 8 segments that consist of 1,000 lobules (small lobes) . The liver holds about one pint (13%) of the bodys blood supply at any given moment. The liver is responsible for producing bile, which helps to break down fats, preparing them for further digestion and absorption. The liver controls most chemical levels in the blood and processes the blood leaving the stomach and intestines, breaking down, balancing, and creating nutrients for the body to use. The liver also breaks down (metabolizes) medicines in the blood into forms that are easier for the body to use. In summary, the liver is part of the digestive system and plays an essential role in removing toxins from the blood, regulating blood sugar levels, and performing hundreds of other vital functions.