What is the role of the gallbladder in digestion?

The gallbladder plays a crucial role in digestion by storing and concentrating bile, which is produced by the liver. Bile is essential for the digestion and absorption of fats and fat-soluble vitamins in the small intestine. After eating, the gallbladder contracts and releases stored bile into the duodenum, facilitating the emulsification of fats, making them easier for digestive enzymes to break down. This process is vital for efficient nutrient absorption.

Absorbing nutrients from digested food is primarily the function of the small intestine, not the gallbladder. The gallbladder does not produce digestive enzymes; that function is carried out by the pancreas and the lining of the intestine. Additionally, the gallbladder does not regulate acid production, which is a role of the stomach and its associated glands. Therefore, the primary function of the gallbladder is accurately represented by the answer regarding its role in storing and concentrating bile.