Where are bile acids primarily stored in the body?

Bile acids are primarily stored in the gallbladder. The gallbladder serves as a reservoir for bile, which is produced by the liver. When fatty food enters the small intestine, the gallbladder releases bile to aid in the digestion and absorption of fats. This process demonstrates the key role the gallbladder plays in the concentration and storage of bile acids, allowing for their effective use in digestion.

In contrast, while bile acids are synthesized in the liver, they are not stored there but rather secreted into the bile, which flows into the gallbladder. The small intestine is where bile acids perform their action but does not serve as a storage site. The stomach is primarily involved in the initial stages of digestion and does not store bile acids at all. Thus, the gallbladder is essential for managing bile acid storage and release in response to dietary needs.