The liver is an essential organ, performing hundreds of functions necessary to sustain life. It's also a gland because it makes proteins and hormones that other parts of the body need.

Weighing, on average, about three pounds in an adult, the liver is the largest internal organ. Under normal conditions, the liver is located on the right side of the body, under the ribs. In a condition called situs inversus, the liver is located on the left side.

What does the liver do?
The liver has hundreds of jobs. Some of the most vital are:

Cleans toxins (harmful substances) out of the blood.
Gets rid of old red blood cells.
Makes bile, a fluid that helps the body digest (break down) food.
Metabolizes proteins, carbohydrates and fats so your body can use them.
Produces substances to help blood clot.

What are the parts of the liver?
The liver has two main parts: the larger right lobe and the smaller left lobe.

The lobes contain many blood vessels. Blood travels through the liver. The liver filters (cleans) the blood, removing toxins and waste that eventually leave the body through urine and feces.

The lobes also contain thousands of lobules (small lobes). These lobules connect with many bile ducts, tubes that transport bile from the liver to the small intestine.

What conditions and disorders affect the liver?
Many conditions can affect the liver. Among the most common are:

Diseases that occur when a person consumes too many toxins, such alcohol-related liver disease and fatty liver disease (extra fat).
Inherited diseases like hemochromatosis (iron overload) and Wilson disease (too much copper in the body).
Liver cancer, when abnormal cells grow too quickly.

How can I keep my liver healthy?
To keep your liver healthy and functioning well, try to follow these tips:

Avoid toxins, such as chemicals, smoking and illegal drugs.
Don’t share needles, razors, toothbrushes or any other personal items, which can spread viruses.
Drink alcohol only in moderation.
Follow healthcare professionals’ instructions about medications, especially warnings against mixing medications and alcohol.
Maintain a healthy weight, including eating a nutritious diet and exercising regularly.
Practice safe sex to avoid hepatitis infection.
Talk to your healthcare provider about vaccinations against hepatitis.
Wash your hands frequently.