If a patient has a significantly reduced number of bile-secreting cells (hepatocytes) due to advanced cirrhosis, which digestive consequence is most likely?

💡 Explanation

Reduced bile secretion impairs the emulsification of fats in the small intestine because bile salts are crucial for breaking down large fat globules into smaller micelles, which are then accessible to lipases. Therefore, decreased lipid emulsification and absorption is the most likely consequence, rather than impacting starch, protein, or vitamin B12 absorption.

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