1. Home
  2. Health Topics
  3. Search Health Topics
  4. Liver

Liver

Top of the page

The liver is a large organ in the right upper part of the abdomen. It performs a range of complex and important functions that affect all body systems.

Some of the specific functions of the liver include:

  • Controlling the amounts of sugar (glucose), protein, and fat entering the bloodstream.
  • Removing bilirubin, ammonia, and other toxins from the blood. (Bilirubin is a by-product of the breakdown of hemoglobin from red blood cells.)
  • Processing most of the nutrients absorbed by the intestines during digestion and converting those nutrients into forms that can be used by the body. The liver also stores some nutrients, such as vitamin A, iron, and other minerals.
  • Producing cholesterol, substances that help blood clot, bile, and certain important proteins, such as albumin.
  • Breaking down (metabolizing) alcohol and many drugs.

Is it an emergency?

If you or someone in your care has chest pains, difficulty breathing, or severe bleeding, it could be a life-threatening emergency. Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number immediately.
If you are concerned about a possible poisoning or exposure to a toxic substance, call Poison Control now at 1-800-567-8911.

Thanks to our partners and endorsers:

Northern HealthBritish Columbia College of Family PhysiciansProvincial Health Services AuthorityVancouver Coastal HealthBritish Columbia Medical Association: Doctors of BCIsland HealthCollege of Pharmacists of British ColumbiaCollege of Physicians and Surgeons of British ColumbiaFraser Health AuthorityCollege of Dietitians of British ColumbiaInterior HealthCollege of Dental Surgeons of British ColumbiaBC Centre for Disease Control