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Functions of the Liver

The liver is a vital organ. Apart from the brain it is the most complex organ of the body. It has a wide variety of functions and acts very much like a factory.

• The liver is a processor
  Processing all the food that we eat so we have energy and can grow
• The liver is a manufacturer
  Producing a number of vital substances critical for growth
• The liver is a storage depot
  Storing energy as glycogen and other substances e.g. copper and vitamins
• The liver is a controller
  Balancing fluid, glucose and hormone levels
• The liver is a filter
  Removing unwanted substances from the body
• The liver is a defender
  Fighting infection

With so many different and complex functions, it is not surprising that things can go wrong.  In fact there are more than 100 different liver diseases affecting children and young people.

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