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Reference Guide
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Total Bile Acids
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Total Bile Acids
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Total Bile Acids

What's 
Total Bile Acids
?
Total Bile Acids are a group of compounds produced by your liver. They play a vital role in digestion, particularly in breaking down fats and absorbing them into your body. Once produced, they are stored in your gallbladder and released into your small intestine when you eat. They also help your body get rid of excess cholesterol and toxins. In essence, Total Bile Acids are like the detergent of your digestive system, helping to dissolve and absorb the nutrients from your food, and keep your body clean from the inside.
If Your Levels Are High
High levels of Total Bile Acids in your blood could indicate a few things. Your liver might not be functioning as it should, which could be due to conditions like liver disease or cirrhosis. Alternatively, there could be a blockage in your bile ducts, which could be caused by gallstones or a tumor. Certain medications, such as those used for cholesterol or diabetes, can also increase bile acid levels. Additionally, conditions like pregnancy or rapid weight loss can cause a temporary spike in these levels. It's important to note that these are potential causes, and high levels of Total Bile Acids could be due to other factors as well.
Symptoms of High Levels
Symptoms of high levels of Total Bile Acids could include yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice), itchy skin, dark urine, light-colored stools, and abdominal pain.
If Your Levels are Low
Low levels of Total Bile Acids in your blood could suggest that your body isn't producing enough bile, which is essential for breaking down and absorbing fats from your diet. This could be due to a variety of reasons. For instance, it could indicate a liver condition, such as cirrhosis or hepatitis, as the liver is responsible for producing bile. Alternatively, it could be a sign of a problem with your gallbladder, which stores and releases bile. Certain medications, like cholestyramine or colestipol, can also lower bile acid levels. Additionally, malnutrition or a diet low in fat could potentially lead to lower bile acid levels, as your body may produce less bile when there's less fat to break down.
Symptoms of Low Levels
Symptoms of low levels of Total Bile Acids could include indigestion, abdominal pain, weight loss, and greasy or light-colored stools. In severe cases, it may also lead to deficiencies in fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K.

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