How Many Organs Are in the Human Body?
The human body is a fascinating and complex mechanism that by adulthood will consist of close to 10 trillion cells and 76 organs. The organs work together systematically to keep you alive and active and each plays a specific role related to your health and development. By definition, an organ is a structure that comprises at least two kinds of tissue that function together for a common purpose. Some of the most important organs in the human body are the skin, liver, heart and lungs.
Skin
The skin is the largest organ in the human body and on average ways up to 6 pounds. It consists of numerous layers of ectodermal tissue and protects the muscles, bones and ligaments. The skin regulates body temperature and protects the internal organs against injury and infection. It also acts as a water-resistant barrier that prevents essential nutrients from being washed out of your body.
Liver
The liver is the largest glandular organ in the body and works very closely with the endocrine system and the heart to keep you healthy. Depending on a number of factors, such as gender, age and overall health, the liver can weigh between 3.1 and 3.5 pounds. It is responsible for a number of vital metabolic functions that are essential to your health, such as detoxification of the blood, protein synthesis and the production of biochemicals needed for healthy digestion. The liver also helps to metabolize fat and produces approximately 80 percent of your body's cholesterol.
Heart
About the size of your fist and shaped like an upside-down pear; the heart is a magnificent organ that pumps an average of 70 to 80 times a minute, delivering nutrient-rich blood to the entire body and its systems. It is estimated that the heart can beat up to 2.5 billion times during a 66-year lifespan.
Lungs
The lungs are a crucial organ in charge of breathing. Human lungs are located in two cavities located at either side of the heart. At a basic level, the lungs absorb oxygen and release carbon dioxide with every breath. The lungs also help protect your body from infections.
Kidneys and Pancreas
The kidneys are in charge of monitoring blood volume and regulating water, electrolyte and acid base balance. They also produce and metabolize hormones that help with blood pressure regulation and stimulate the production of red blood cells. The kidneys work together with the pancreas to maintain steady levels of glucose in the body.
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