Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Bile salts are physiologically active compounds that play a critical role in the digestion and absorption of dietary fats and fat-soluble vitamins in the small intestine. They are synthesized in the liver (part of the hepatic system) and stored in the gallbladder. The use of supplemental bile salts is primarily supported by scientific understanding of their mechanism of action, especially in cases where endogenous bile production or secretion is impaired, such as after gallbladder removal (cholecystectomy), certain liver diseases, or bile duct obstruction. Clinical studies have shown that bile salt supplementation (usually as ox bile or ursodeoxycholic acid) can improve fat digestion and nutrient absorption in patients with bile acid deficiencies or cholestatic liver diseases.

However, robust evidence for the use of bile salts as a general "support" for the hepatic system in healthy individuals is limited. Most clinical applications are targeted at specific hepatic or biliary dysfunctions. For example, ursodeoxycholic acid is used to treat primary biliary cholangitis and certain cholestatic conditions due to its ability to modify bile composition and flow. There is little evidence to support their use for "detoxification" or general liver health in the absence of a diagnosed deficiency or disease. Thus, while the scientific rationale for using bile salts in hepatic dysfunction is strong, their use as a general hepatic system "support" is less well substantiated.

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