What are the three main functions of the gallbladder?

The gallbladder plays a crucial role in the digestive system, specifically in the processing of bile, which is essential for fat digestion and absorption. The three main functions of the gallbladder include concentrating bile, storing bile, and transporting bile.

The function of concentrating bile involves the removal of water and certain electrolytes from the bile, resulting in a more concentrated solution that is more effective at emulsifying fats when released into the small intestine. This concentrated bile is then stored in the gallbladder until it is needed for digestion.

When food, particularly fatty meals, enters the duodenum, the gallbladder contracts and releases the stored bile into the intestines via the cystic duct and then the common bile duct. This transportation is vital for proper digestion and absorption of fats and fat-soluble vitamins.

While producing bile is an important function, this occurs in the liver rather than the gallbladder. Similar misinterpretations can be associated with the transport of nutrients or blood filtering, as these functions do not directly relate to the gallbladder's primary roles.