Question
Describe how fats are digested in the duodenum
Answers
GPT 3.5
Fats are primarily broken down in the duodenum through the action of bile and pancreatic lipase. When fats enter the duodenum from the stomach, they trigger the release of bile from the gallbladder. Bile emulsifies the fats, breaking them into smaller droplets and making it easier for pancreatic lipase to break them down further.
Once emulsified by bile, pancreatic lipase acts on the fats and breaks them down into fatty acids and glycerol. These smaller molecules can then be absorbed by the small intestine and enter the bloodstream for energy or storage.
In addition to bile and pancreatic lipase, other enzymes and co-factors in the duodenum also play a role in the digestion and absorption of fats. Bile also helps with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and other nutrients present in fatty foods.
Once emulsified by bile, pancreatic lipase acts on the fats and breaks them down into fatty acids and glycerol. These smaller molecules can then be absorbed by the small intestine and enter the bloodstream for energy or storage.
In addition to bile and pancreatic lipase, other enzymes and co-factors in the duodenum also play a role in the digestion and absorption of fats. Bile also helps with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and other nutrients present in fatty foods.