Read about the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas.

The liver, gallbladder, and pancreas are three important organs in the digestive system that play key roles in the digestion and absorption of nutrients.

The liver is the largest internal organ in the human body and is located in the upper right side of the abdomen. It performs a wide range of functions, including producing bile, which helps to digest fats, storing and releasing glucose for energy, filtering toxins from the blood, and producing proteins that are essential for blood clotting and other bodily functions.

The gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped organ located beneath the liver. Its main function is to store and concentrate bile produced by the liver, releasing it into the small intestine to aid in the digestion of fats. The gallbladder can sometimes develop gallstones, which can cause pain and other complications.

The pancreas is a long, flat gland located behind the stomach. It has both endocrine and exocrine functions. The endocrine portion of the pancreas produces hormones such as insulin and glucagon, which help regulate blood sugar levels. The exocrine portion of the pancreas produces digestive enzymes that are released into the small intestine to help break down carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.

Overall, the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas work together to help the body digest food, absorb nutrients, and eliminate waste products. Dysfunction of any of these organs can lead to a variety of health problems, so it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle and seek medical attention if any issues arise.

Liver

- Largest internal organ in the body
- Functions:
- Bile production and secretion
- Metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids
- Detoxification of harmful substances
- Storage of vitamins and minerals
- Production of blood clotting factors
- Location: Located in the upper right quadrant of the abdominal cavity, beneath the diaphragm
- Size: Roughly the size of a football

Gallbladder

- Small, pear-shaped organ attached to the underside of the liver
- Functions:
- Stores bile produced by the liver
- Concentrates and releases bile into the small intestine to aid in the digestion of fats
- Location: Nestled in a hollow on the underside of the liver
- Size: Approximately 3-4 inches long

Pancreas

- Elongated, glandular organ located behind the stomach
- Functions:
- Produces and secretes digestive enzymes into the small intestine
- Produces and secretes hormones into the bloodstream (insulin and glucagon) that regulate blood sugar levels
- Location: Extends from the duodenum to the spleen
- Size: Roughly 6-8 inches long

Interactions

The liver, gallbladder, and pancreas work together to facilitate digestion and metabolism.

- The liver produces bile, which is stored in the gallbladder and released into the small intestine to emulsify and break down fats.
- The pancreas produces digestive enzymes that help break down proteins, carbohydrates, and fats in the small intestine.
- The pancreas also produces hormones that regulate blood sugar levels.

Impairments in any of these organs can affect the digestive process and overall health.