Fat digestion begins in the mouth with lingual lipase, but the majority of fat breakdown occurs in the small intestine. Here's a breakdown of the process:
The Role of Bile and Lipase
Fats, present as large globules in the small intestine, require preparation before they can be absorbed. This is where bile, secreted by the liver, plays a crucial role. Bile salts emulsify these large fat globules, breaking them down into smaller droplets. This process increases the surface area available for enzymatic action. Think of it like this: imagine trying to wash a large, greasy plate – it's much easier to clean when the grease is broken up into smaller pieces.
Following emulsification, pancreatic lipase, an enzyme from the pancreas, can effectively digest the smaller fat globules. Lipase breaks down triglycerides (the main type of fat in our diet) into fatty acids and glycerol, which are then absorbed into the intestinal cells.
Step-by-Step Process
- Emulsification: Bile salts from the liver break down large fat globules into smaller ones.
- Enzymatic Digestion: Pancreatic lipase breaks down triglycerides into fatty acids and glycerol.
- Absorption: Fatty acids and glycerol are absorbed by the cells lining the small intestine.
Key Players in Fat Digestion
- Lingual lipase: Begins fat digestion in the mouth.
- Bile salts: From the liver; emulsify fats.
- Pancreatic lipase: From the pancreas; breaks down triglycerides.
- Small intestine: The primary site of fat digestion and absorption.
