Bile

Definition

Bile is a digestive fluid produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder. It helps break down fats into fatty acids, which can be taken into the body by the digestive tract.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Bile contains bile acids, cholesterol, phospholipids, and bilirubin.
2. The primary function of bile is to emulsify fats in the small intestine for easier digestion.
3. Bile is released from the gallbladder into the duodenum through the common bile duct.
4. Bile production is stimulated by the hormone cholecystokinin (CCK) when fatty foods enter the small intestine.
5. Reabsorption of bile acids occurs in the ileum, and they are transported back to the liver via enterohepatic circulation.

Review Questions

• What are the main components of bile?
• How does bile aid in fat digestion?
• Describe how bile reaches the small intestine from its production site.

Related terms

Liver:

An organ that produces bile and performs various metabolic processes.

Gallbladder:

A small organ where bile is stored before being released into the small intestine.

Cholecystokinin (CCK): A hormone that stimulates the release of bile from the gallbladder when fatty foods are present in the small intestine.