What substances does the liver store during homeostasis?

The liver plays a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis within the body by storing various substances that are essential for metabolic processes. One of its primary functions is to store vital nutrients such as iron and vitamin B12. Iron is a key component in the formation of hemoglobin, which is necessary for oxygen transport in the blood, while vitamin B12 is essential for red blood cell production and DNA synthesis. The liver can store these substances in significant amounts, ensuring that they are available when the body requires them, especially in times of increased demand or dietary insufficiency.

Other substances, like fats and carbohydrates, are indeed processed and stored in the liver, but the liver's specific storage and regulation of iron and vitamin B12 highlight its critical role in nutrient metabolism and homeostasis. Therefore, the focus on the liver's role in storing iron and vitamin B12 provides insight into its significance in the body’s overall health and metabolic functions.