What role do bile salts play in the body?

Bile salts are crucial for the digestion and absorption of fats in the small intestine. They are derived from cholesterol and are produced in the liver, then stored and concentrated in the gallbladder. When food enters the small intestine, especially food high in fats, bile salts are released to emulsify those fats, breaking them down into smaller droplets. This process increases the surface area available for digestive enzymes, making it easier for the body to absorb fatty acids and other fat-soluble nutrients.

The other choices do have important functions in the body, but they do not relate to the primary role of bile salts. Energy storage is primarily managed by fats and carbohydrates, blood clotting involves different proteins and factors in the blood, and body temperature regulation is maintained by various mechanisms, including sweating and blood flow adjustments.