What Happens When You Have No Gallbladder?

The gallbladder stores and releases bile, a liquid that helps the body break down fatty foods. A gallbladder may be removed if it becomes inflamed or causes a blockage in the bile duct. People typically live normally after having the gallbladder removed.

Bile Production

• Without the gallbladder, the body will still produce bile. Now, the bile moves from the liver straight to the bile duct and through to the small intestine. Since the bile has nowhere to be stored, this process happens continuously with the bile being released in a slow trickle.

Digestion

• After the gallbladder is removed, most people will continue to digest food normally. However, since the bile is released in smaller amounts, the body may break down food more slowly, and there is a greater chance for indigestion.

Diet

• A special diet is not required for someone living without a gallbladder, however since bile is not as readily produced, there are certain foods that should be avoided. High-fat foods and spicy foods may be more difficult for the body to break down and can cause discomfort.

Liver Congestion

• The liver may become congested as a result of having nowhere to store bile. This can weaken the liver as well as the spleen and pancreas. When there is too much bile in the liver, the bile may turn from liquid to solid and form liver stones.