The yellowish brown or green fluid secreted by the liver and discharged into the duodenum where it aids in theemulsification of fats, increases peristalsis, and retards putrefaction; contains sodium glycocholate and sodiumtaurocholate, cholesterol, biliverdin and bilirubin, mucus, fat, lecithin, and cells and cellular debris. Bile salts allow thedigestion and the intestinal absorption of fats and then of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E and K). Syn: gall.