 The liver is a magnificent organ in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen, protected by the rib cage. Its size is similar to a football and weights 3 to 5 pounds. It is an impressive chemical factory, that receives blood from the digestive tract (80%) and the heart (20%).
Blood from the gut is full of nutrients, which are absorbed by the intestine after the food is digested.
The liver uses these nutrients to maintain body functions and structure (muscles, bones, etc).
The liver also stores proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals.
It keeps the body’s environment stable. In addition, the liver cleanses the blood from a large number of toxins, hormones, medications, and infectious agents. It plays a major role in maintaining our immune system and protecting our blood from getting contaminated by infection arising from the gut.
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