The newborn organ that takes the prize as the heaviest of all is the liver. At birth, the average weight of a baby’s liver is about 3.5 ounces, which is more than twice the weight of the average baby’s brain.
The liver is an incredibly important organ for newborns, as it is responsible for a number of essential functions. For example, the liver helps to break down the mother’s hormones and other substances that have crossed the placenta, and it helps to remove bilirubin from the infant’s body. It also helps to regulate blood sugar levels and produce proteins for clotting.
The liver is also responsible for producing bile, which helps the body to digest fats. Bile is also important for cleansing the body, as it helps to eliminate toxins.
The liver’s development continues after birth, with growth spurts that peak at around 6 months. During this period, the liver continues to develop important functions, such as producing enzymes that aid in digestion and the production of hormones.
The liver is the most important organ in the newborn, and its weight and development are closely monitored by pediatricians. Abnormalities in the growth or development of the liver can be associated with a number of conditions, including metabolic disorders and certain genetic syndromes. It is, therefore, essential that any abnormalities are identified early on so that they can be treated before any serious complications occur.
