Gallbladder function

If we can survive without a gallbladder then why do we have one?

Bile acids can be divided into two groups: water soluble and non-soluble. Since long stagnation of the gallbladder can cause Gallstones to form animals that can manage without food for long periods do not have gallbladders, eg, camels. Some mammals such as bears that hibernate do have gallbladders but they only produce water soluble bile acids. Therefore the gallbladders function is concerned with the control of non-water soluble bile acids. These bile acids are toxic and harmful to the liver and intestines if they continually circulate and reabsorb. The gallbladder function is to store them and protect the liver and intestines from the toxic bile and release them in a safe manner only when required.

The gallbladder responds to food by contracting in a way depending on the type and quantity of food. About 10-15 minutes after eating a typical meal the gallbladder contracts and empties in 5-20 minutes. However, the food in the stomach moves from the stomach 1-4 hours later. The role of the gallbladder bile many fold but it increases digestive activity and stimulates the secretion of liver bile. It can therefore be argued that liver bile that aids digestion rather that gallbladder bile.
The gallbladder protects the liver, and intestines from toxic bile salts. Without it we have an increased risk of certain cancers.

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