Which organ helps in the absorption of fats from the digestive tract?

Prepare for the NHI Western Segment Examination. Practice with diverse question formats, complete with hints and detailed explanations to boost confidence. Ensure your readiness for the test!

The liver plays a crucial role in the absorption of fats from the digestive tract. After fats are digested in the small intestine, they are broken down into smaller molecules known as fatty acids and glycerol. These components are then absorbed into the intestinal lining and transported to the liver via the bloodstream.

Once in the liver, these fats can be further processed into various forms, including triglycerides and cholesterol, which are essential for cell structure and energy. The liver also produces bile, which is stored in the gallbladder and released into the small intestine to aid in the emulsification and absorption of dietary fats. This demonstrates the liver's central importance in lipid metabolism and overall nutritional absorption.

In contrast, the lungs, heart, and kidneys do not have functions directly related to the absorption of dietary fats. The lungs are primarily involved in gas exchange, the heart is responsible for pumping blood throughout the body, and the kidneys function in filtering blood and maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance.

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