--Digestion of food: Classified as a gland due to its ability to secrete chemicals, the liver produces a substance called bile that enables the body’s digestion of fat. Salt within bile breaks fat into smaller pieces to allow the small intestine to absorb it more easily.
--Processing of nutrients: Nutrients from food enter the bloodstream and travel to the liver for processing to support the body’s needs. The liver stores some nutrients and uses others to create important chemicals for other parts of the body.
--Detoxification of blood: As blood passes through the liver, the organ removes toxins, damaged cells, and other unnecessary entities such as drugs the body no longer needs. In addition, the liver metabolizes and removes circulation hormones to maintain appropriate hormone levels.
--Production of proteins: The body requires proteins to perform a number of functions. Proteins produced by the liver allow blood to clot, reducing the time open wounds continue to bleed. The liver also produces proteins that assist the immune system.
--Support of the immune system: The liver aids the immune system in fighting infections and diseases by producing cells that capture harmful bacteria, parasites, and cellular debris in the bloodstream.