Liver is the largest gland in human body. It is also the largest (internal) organ in our body and can weigh up to 1.5 kg for a human adult. That is, about 1/50th of the body weight is because of liver. It is located in the right upper quadrant of the abdominal cavity.

Liver is the largest gland found in the human body. It is about 1.6 Kg. in an adult man.

The Largest Gland in Our Body: Liver

The largest gland in our body is the liver. It is an essential organ that performs numerous vital functions necessary for our overall well-being. Let's delve into the details of the liver and explore why it holds the distinction of being the largest gland in the human body.

Functions of the Liver:
The liver carries out a wide range of functions that are crucial for the proper functioning of our body. Some of the key functions of the liver include:

1. Metabolism: The liver plays a vital role in metabolism by processing nutrients from the food we consume. It breaks down carbohydrates, proteins, and fats into smaller components that can be utilized by the body for energy production and other essential processes.

2. Detoxification: The liver acts as a detoxifying organ by filtering harmful substances, such as toxins, alcohol, drugs, and metabolic waste products, from the bloodstream. It converts these toxins into less harmful substances that can be eliminated from the body.

3. Production of Bile: The liver synthesizes and secretes bile, a substance necessary for the digestion and absorption of fats. Bile is stored in the gallbladder and released into the small intestine to facilitate the breakdown of fats into smaller molecules.

4. Storage: The liver serves as a storage site for various essential substances. It stores glycogen (a form of glucose) that can be released when there is a need for energy. Additionally, the liver stores vitamins (A, D, E, K, and B12), minerals, and iron.

5. Production of Blood Proteins: The liver produces several important blood proteins, including albumin, which helps maintain proper fluid balance in the body, and clotting factors that are essential for blood coagulation.

Structure of the Liver:
The liver is located in the upper right side of the abdomen, beneath the diaphragm. It has a unique lobular structure consisting of thousands of tiny functional units called lobules. Each lobule is composed of hepatic cells arranged in a hexagonal fashion around a central vein. These cells are responsible for carrying out the various functions of the liver.

Size and Weight of the Liver:
On average, the liver weighs around 1.4 to 1.5 kilograms (3 to 3.3 pounds) in adults. The size of the liver can vary depending on factors such as age, sex, and overall health. It is roughly the size of a football and is the largest internal organ in the human body.

Conclusion:
The liver, the largest gland in our body, is a remarkable organ responsible for a multitude of crucial functions. From metabolism and detoxification to bile secretion and storage, the liver plays an indispensable role in maintaining our overall health and well-being. Understanding the significance of this vital organ helps us appreciate the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle to support its optimal function.