The Liver’s Top 10 Jobs: From Bile Production to Detoxification
Producing bile: The liver produces bile, which is stored in the gallbladder and released into the small intestine to help digest fats and absorb fat-soluble vitamins.
Metabolizing carbohydrates: The liver converts excess glucose into glycogen, which is stored in the liver and muscles and can be converted back into glucose as needed.
Metabolizing proteins: The liver plays a role in protein metabolism by synthesizing proteins, breaking down amino acids, and removing excess amino acids from the body.
Detoxification: The liver filters toxins and waste products from the blood and converts them into a form that can be eliminated from the body through the urine or feces.
Storing vitamins and minerals: The liver stores important vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin D, and iron.
Regulating blood clotting: The liver produces substances that are necessary for blood clotting, such as clotting factors and fibrinogen.
Regulating blood sugar: The liver helps regulate blood sugar levels by releasing glycogen into the bloodstream as needed.
Producing cholesterol: The liver produces cholesterol, which is a type of fat found in the blood and is necessary for the production of hormones and the synthesis of vitamin D.
Breaking down hormones: The liver breaks down hormones that are no longer needed, helping to regulate hormone levels in the body.
Producing immune factors: The liver produces immune factors that help protect the body against infection and disease.