What does cholecystokinin trigger in the digestive process?

Cholecystokinin (CCK) is a hormone that plays a vital role in the digestive process, particularly in the digestion of fats and proteins. When food enters the small intestine, especially fatty acids and amino acids, CCK is released from intestinal cells. One of its primary functions is to stimulate the gallbladder to contract and release bile into the small intestine.

Bile is crucial for digestion because it helps emulsify fats, making them easier for digestive enzymes to break down. This process enhances the absorption of fatty acids and fat-soluble vitamins. Therefore, recognizing the role of cholecystokinin as a trigger for bile release from the gallbladder underscores its importance in facilitating effective digestion and the subsequent absorption of nutrients.