Gastrointestinal System Nursing Exam Questions Related

Review Gastrointestinal System Nursing Exam Questions related questions and content

Fatty acids and glycerol are released when _____ are broken down by liver or muscle cells.

  • A. micelles
  • B. chylomicrons
  • C. lacteals
  • D. lipoproteins
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: chylomicrons. Chylomicrons are lipoprotein particles that transport dietary lipids (including fatty acids and glycerol) from the small intestine to the liver or muscle cells for metabolism. When chylomicrons reach the liver or muscles, lipoprotein lipase breaks them down, releasing fatty acids and glycerol for energy production or storage.
Now, let's analyze why the other choices are incorrect:
A: Micelles are small lipid droplets formed in the small intestine to aid in lipid digestion and absorption, but they do not release fatty acids and glycerol when broken down.
C: Lacteals are lymphatic vessels in the small intestine that absorb dietary fats, but they do not release fatty acids and glycerol.
D: Lipoproteins are involved in transporting lipids in the bloodstream but do not release fatty acids and glycerol when broken down.