Why does obstruction in the common bile duct cause interference with digestion of some foods?

The common bile duct is a small tube that carries bile from the liver and gallbladder to the small intestine. Bile helps to digest fats. When the common bile duct is obstructed, bile cannot reach the small intestine and this can interfere with the digestion of fats.

Fats are broken down by enzymes called lipases. Bile salts help to emulsify fats which makes them easier for the lipases to access. Without bile, fats cannot be digested properly and this can lead to a number of symptoms, including:

* Flatulence

* Diarrhoea

* Abdominal pain

* Weight loss

* Nutrient deficiencies

In severe cases, obstruction of the common bile duct can also lead to liver damage.