Synopsis

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

Bile acids are sometimes used as supplements for individuals with gallbladder dysfunction (such as biliary dyskinesia, “sluggish” gallbladder) or post-cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal). The scientific basis for this practice centers on the physiological role of bile acids in digestion, especially the emulsification and absorption of dietary fats and fat-soluble vitamins. After gallbladder removal, bile is still produced by the liver but released continuously into the intestine rather than in regulated amounts, which can sometimes lead to impaired fat digestion and symptoms such as steatorrhea or diarrhea.

Supplementing with bile acids (often in the form of ox bile) is theorized to help normalize fat digestion in these individuals. Some small studies and case reports have documented improvement in digestive symptoms with bile acid supplementation post-cholecystectomy, but robust, large-scale clinical trials are lacking. There is a well-established scientific understanding of the role of bile acids in fat digestion, but direct clinical validation for routine supplementation in all post-cholecystectomy or sluggish gallbladder patients is limited.

In summary, the use of bile acid supplements is supported by scientific rationale and some limited evidence, though not by large, high-quality clinical trials. The evidence is moderate (3/5) due to a clear physiological basis and some clinical support, but it falls short of the highest level of scientific validation.

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