Greasy or Shiny Stools

Greasy or shiny stools are an indication of hepato-biliary dysfunction. Fats in the diet require adequate bile production from the liver and adequate bile release from the the gallbladder to be properly emulsified and digested. Decreased output of bile from the gallbladder will cause fat to remain undigested in the small intestine, leading to steatthorea or greasy / shiny stools, There is a strong need for bile salts to help with the emulsification of fats.

Another possible cause is pancreatic insufficiency. The pancreas produces lipase, which aids in the digestion of emulsified fats.

Reference: Weatherby, D. (2004). Signs and Symptoms Analysis from a Functional Perspective. Jacksonville, OR: Bear Mountain Publishing