Liver and Pancreas: Essential Accessory Organs of Digestion

The two accessory organs in the digestive system are the liver and the pancreas.

Liver

- Located on the right upper quadrant of the abdomen

- Functions:

- Produces bile, which emulsifies fats

- Stores glycogen

- Detoxifies harmful substances

- Produces blood clotting proteins

- Synthesizes cholesterol and other lipids

Pancreas

- Located behind the stomach

- Functions:

- Releases pancreatic juice into the duodenum, which contains enzymes that digest carbohydrates, proteins, and fats

- Produces insulin and glucagon, which regulate blood sugar levels