The primary organ responsible for digesting fat is the small intestine.
While the process of fat digestion begins in the mouth with the help of lingual lipase, the majority of fat breakdown occurs in the small intestine. Here, the enzyme pancreatic lipase, secreted by the pancreas, breaks down dietary fats into smaller molecules called fatty acids and glycerol. These smaller molecules can then be easily absorbed into the bloodstream.
The small intestine's unique structure, with its folds, villi, and microvilli, increases its surface area, allowing for efficient absorption of digested fats.
Here's a breakdown of the process:
* **Mouth:** Lingual lipase, a small amount of fat-digesting enzyme, begins the process.
* **Stomach:** The stomach churns and mixes food with gastric juices, further breaking down fats into smaller droplets.
* **Small intestine:** The majority of fat digestion takes place here. Pancreatic lipase, secreted by the pancreas, breaks down fat into fatty acids and glycerol.
* **Absorption:** The small intestine absorbs the fatty acids and glycerol into the bloodstream. The liver then processes these absorbed fats, storing some for energy and using others to build cell membranes and hormones.
