The liver is the biggest internal organ. The weight of the liver of an adult is approximately 1–1.5 kg. The liver is located on the right side of the abdominal cavity, under the diaphragm, protected by the ribs.
The liver regulates sugar metabolism. It stores sugar broken down from food and releases it into the bloodstream as needed. Insulin, secreted by the pancreas, increases the storage of sugar in the liver. Conversely, the counteracting hormone glucagon releases sugar from the liver into the bloodstream.
Liver has hundreds of different tasks
Liver
processes absorbed nutrients and vitamins
stores and modified nutrients to meet the body’s requirements
regulates lipid metabolism
makes proteins and fats
produces bile, which is needed for the absorption of fats and fat-soluble vitamins
produces blood coagulation factors
takes part in the production and regulation of several hormones
breaks down alcohol, medicines and other chemical substances