Gallstone surgery sometimes requires that the gallbladder be removed. Patients are then advised to avoid ingesting large amounts of fat because __________.

• A. the gallbladder makes bile, which is necessary for fat emulsification
• B. without the bile produced by the gallbladder, fats cannot be enzymatically hydrolyzed
• C. the gallbladder stores the hormone cholecystokinin, necessary to digest fats
• D. chylomicrons first enter the gallbladder before moving to the liver
• E. the gallbladder stores large quantities of bile, which is used to emulsify fats

Answer: (E)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of the gallbladder: The gallbladder is an organ that stores bile produced by the liver. Bile is crucial for the emulsification of fats, which is the process of breaking down large fat globules into smaller droplets, making them accessible to digestive enzymes.
2. Identify the function of bile: Bile contains bile salts, which are amphipathic molecules. This means they have both hydrophilic (water-attracting) and hydrophobic (water-repelling) properties, allowing them to interact with fats and water, aiding in the emulsification process.
3. Consider the impact of gallbladder removal: When the gallbladder is removed, the body loses its primary storage site for bile. Although the liver continues to produce bile, it is released directly into the small intestine in a continuous, less concentrated flow, rather than being stored and released in response to fat ingestion.
4. Analyze the consequences for fat digestion: Without the concentrated release of bile from the gallbladder, the emulsification of fats becomes less efficient. This can lead to difficulties in digesting large amounts of dietary fat, as the emulsification process is crucial for the subsequent enzymatic breakdown of fats by lipases.
5. Conclude why patients should avoid large amounts of fat: Since the gallbladder stores large quantities of bile necessary for efficient fat emulsification, its removal means that patients should avoid ingesting large amounts of fat to prevent digestive discomfort and ensure proper nutrient absorption.