Chapter 23, Problem 23.29QP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The function of the bile salts in the digestion of dietary lipids has to be determined.

Concept Introduction:

Dietary lipids are mainly composed of triglycerides and phospholipids. Their digestion involves cleavage of the ester bonds present in triglycerides to get monoacylglycerols and small fatty acids that can serve as fuel for the body.

The composition of bile that is synthesized in the liver and stored in the gall bladder includes micelles of lecithin, cholesterol, protein, inorganic ions, bile salts, and other pigments. The most common bile salts are derivatives of bile acids, namely cholic acid, and chenodeoxycholic acid.