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Disorders of Fat Digestion

Disorders of Fat Digestion

Learn more about the Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition

What are disorders of fat digestion?

Dietary fats are made up of triglycerides, which include fatty acid molecules and glycerol. Dietary fats also include phospholipids, free fatty acids, monoglycerides (1 fatty acid), diglycerides (2 fatty acids), and sterols.

Fat digestion begins in the stomach. Some of the byproducts of fat digestion can be directly absorbed in the stomach. When the fat enters the small intestine, the gallbladder and pancreas secrete substances to further break down the fat.

Fat digestion disorders occur when there is a problem with any of these processes.

Small bowel syndrome, liver disorders, as well as cystic fibrosis may increase the risk of fat digestion disorders and lead to fat malabsorption.

At The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, children with disorders of fat digestion are managed by doctors in the Division of Gastroenterology (GI), Hepatology and Nutrition.

Your child's appointment

Learn what to bring, what to expect when you arrive and during your child's examination, and how to schedule follow-up testing.

Resources to help

Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition Resources

We have created resources and patient instructions to help you feel confident with the care you are providing your child.

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