Why does nutrient-rich blood of the hepatic portal vein pass first through the liver before this blood is returned to the heart?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Nutrient-rich blood from the gastrointestinal system flows into the hepatic portal vein, which carries it to the liver for processing. The liver can store excess nutrients such as glucose, vitamins, and minerals for later use and can also modify certain nutrients for the body's needs. This allows the liver to maintain a balance of nutrients in the bloodstream before the blood is returned to the heart for distribution to the rest of the body.

Why Does Nutrient-Rich Blood of the Hepatic Portal Vein Pass