The gallbladder stores bile, which it then secretes into the small intestine. Bile contributes to digestion by breaking up large fat globules, a process known as emulsification.

Who emulsifies fats in the small intestine?

In the small intestines, bile emulsifies fats while enzymes digest them. The intestinal cells absorb the fats. Long-chain fatty acids form a large lipoprotein structure called a chylomicron that transports fats through the lymph system.

What causes fat globules to emulsify?

Bile is composed of amphipathic molecules such as phospholipids and bile salts. When bile enters the small intestine, it will mix with the fat globules and will cause them to break down into smaller units called emulsion droplets. This process is called emulsification.