Pancreatic lipases

Definition

Pancreatic lipases are enzymes produced by the pancreas that break down dietary fats into smaller molecules, such as fatty acids and glycerol, so they can be absorbed by the intestines. They play a crucial role in the digestive process by enabling the body to utilize fat from foods.

Related terms

Digestion: The process by which food is broken down into small enough pieces to be absorbed by the body's digestive tract.

Fatty Acids: These are the building blocks of fats in our diet and are critical for many body functions, including energy storage and cell membrane structure.

Glycerol: A simple compound that, together with fatty acids, forms triglycerides, which are the main constituents of body fat in humans and other animals