What is the liver? The liver is an organ located on the right side of the body underneath the lower ribcage. It is connected to gallbladder and is involved in the absorption of fats and fat-soluble vitamins. Blood carrying contents of the stomach and intestines flows directly to the liver, because the liver has a large role in protecting the body from harmful substances. The liver is also integral to countless other metabolic processes. It produces more proteins than any other organ in the body. What exactly does the liver do? The liver: Stores and Mobilizes Energy Controls Blood Sugar (Glucose) Regulates Glycogen Regulates Fat Storage Aids Digestion Produces Bile Regulates Blood Clotting Manufactures Clotting Factors Other Blood Proteins (During gestation the liver, forms blood in place of bone marrow.) Produces Several (Non-Reproductive) Hormones Manufactures Cholesterol (a certain amount of cholesterol is beneficial) Filters Blood Eliminates Bacteria Detoxifies Poisons Externally-Derived Poisons Alcohol Byproducts of Metabolism Bilirubin Breaks down Drugs Produces Vitamins Vitamin D Stores Minerals Iron Produces Essential Immune System Factors Monitors, as Well as Manufactures, Countless other Blood Proteins, to Maintain the Proper Levels of Numerous Chemicals in the Body