Ox bile is an extract of exactly what its name implies, the bile of an ox. Because it is made from the bile of an animal, it contains many of the digestive enzymes and nutrients needed to help properly digest food. Ox bile can be used to supplement fat digestion and in the treatment of nausea, upset stomach and diarrhea.

What is Bile?

Bile is a yellowy-greenish substance produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder. When you eat substances that contain fat, it stimulates your gallbladder to release the stored bile into your digestive tract, where it mixes with your food.

Because bile contains substances that promote the proper breakdown of fat, it is essential to properly metabolize fatty foods such as dairy products, oils, and meat. In addition to its digestive function, bile contains body salts, minerals and often cholesterol.

Ox Bile's Key Health Benefits

When released into the small intestine, or when taken as a supplement, bile mixes into the food in your digestive tract and helps to act on any fat there, much like a detergent. This means it takes big fat globules and makes them into tiny balls that lipase (the fat-digesting enzyme) can easily work on. Some people, who have had their gallbladder removed, use this to supplement their bile production with meals since they no longer have a storage place for their own bile. With improved digestion of fats, the ability to absorb fat-soluble vitamins such as A, D, E, and K improves as well.

Ox Bile Supplement Varieties

Ox bile can be found in many different digestive aid supplements. It is often found in combination with digestive enzymes such as lipase, protease, and amylase. There is no recommended dosage associated with it, so it is best to follow the label recommendations of each product.

Important Information About Ox Bile

If ox bile is taken in excessive amounts it can cause diarrhea due to the osmotic effect (drawing water into the intestines).