What is bile? Bile is a digestive juice that is secreted by the liver and stored in the gallbladder. Excess substances that the body does not need, byproducts like bilirubin and wastes processed by the liver are passed out through the bile. It empties into the duodenum of the small intestine where it assists with the digestion of fats. Eventually the bile mixes with stool and is then passed out of the body during defecation. However, bile is more than just a waste substance. Without bile, the body cannot digest fats properly. Furthermore the liver would not be able to expel wastes which could then accumulate in the body. Some of the conditions that are associated with bile or disruption in its production or excretion includes gallstones, bile duct strictures and various liver diseases. For example, gallstones may form from the substance in bile such as cholesterol. However, these stones can then block the outflow of bile when it becomes lodged in the neck of the gallbladder or in one of the bile ducts. Functions of Bile Bile is not just a waste substance. It plays an important role in digestion. Unlike other digestive secretions in the gastrointestinal tract, bile … Continue reading Bile Production, Function, Salts, Storage, Secretion