Bile is yellowish green in color.
Why is Bile Yellowish Green?
The characteristic color of bile stems from the presence of specific pigments:
- Bilirubin: A pigment produced during the breakdown of old red blood cells.
- Biliverdin: Another pigment that is formed in the breakdown process.
These pigments, created when the body processes dead and worn-out red blood cells, are what gives bile its distinctive yellowish-green hue.
Function of Bile
Bile is not only identified by its color; it also serves a crucial role in digestion. It is a watery fluid produced by the liver that helps the body:
- Break down fats.
- Absorb fat-soluble vitamins.
- Eliminate waste products from the body.
Summary
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Color | Yellowish green |
| Pigments | Bilirubin and Biliverdin |
| Origin | Breakdown of dead and worn-out red blood cells |
| Production | Liver |
| Function | Aids in fat digestion, absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and waste elimination |
