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Bile acids are part of the thick liquid called bile that helps the body to digest fats. Bile is produced by the liver, stored in the gallbladder, and released into the small intestine where food is digested.

Normally, most of the bile acids used in digestion collect in the last part of the small intestine (ileum) and are returned to the gallbladder and used again. A small amount is lost in the stool and must be replaced by the liver.

Current as of: October 19, 2023

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: October 19, 2023

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.