The gallbladder is a small pear-shaped organ belonging to the hepatobiliary system. Among its primary functions is the storage and release of bile, the body's natural emulsifying agent, in response to the consumption of dietary fats. Gallstones are a gallbladder complication responsible for nearly 700,000 surgeries and hospitalizations per year in the United States. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, risk factors for gallstones include being female, pregnancy, overweight or obesity, high triglyceride levels, and being of Native American or Scandinavian ethnic origin. Despite the fact that surgery is the most common treatment route for gallstones, dietary intervention is also of importance to relieve symptoms and reduce the risk of recurrence.
High-Fiber Diet
Research has shown that fiber has a protective role against the formation of gallstones. To ensure an adequate intake of fiber in your diet, consume a wide variety of whole grains (whole wheat bread, brown rice, quinoa and oats), fruits, and vegetables, legumes, nuts and seeds. The Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) for fiber is 38 grams for men younger than 50 and 25 grams for women of the same age group. Men and women age 51 or older need 30 grams and 21 grams of fiber per day, respectively. Check food labels to monitor your intake of fiber and choose products that offer at least 3 g of fiber per serving. If you currently consume a low-fiber diet, increase your fiber intake on a gradual basis to prevent sudden bloating, discomfort, gas or other forms of gastrointestinal distress.
Proper Hydration
Increasing dietary fiber must be coupled by adequate fluid intake. Otherwise, constipation or flatulence might ensue. Ideally, fluid needs should be met by drinking water, milk, and 100 percent fruit and vegetable juices instead of sodas and other sugary drinks. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), it is recommended that men consume a gallon of water per day and women 2/3 of a gallon per day. It is important to note that this recommendation includes drinking water in addition to the water found in other beverages and foods. To make sure you are getting enough water, drink at least eight cups of water per day.
Low-Fat Intake
When dietary fat in consumed, the gallbladder gets stimulated to contract and release bile into the small intestines. As a result, individuals diagnosed with gallstones may suffer pain and discomfort. Because of that, a low-fat diet is often recommended for gallstone patients. To lower your fat intake, cut down on fried and fatty foods such as fatty cuts of meat, full-fat dairy products, butter, oils, chocolate and pastries. Moreover, gallstone patients best tolerate plain and simple foods rather than those heavy on spices and condiments.
Supplementation
Inadequate intake of some vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, vitamin E or calcium may increase the risk of gallstones, according to the Mayo Clinic. To ensure an adequate intake of those nutrients, consume a wide variety of whole grains, dairy, fruits and vegetables. Specifically, vitamin C is found in citrus fruits, peppers and tomatoes, whereas vitamin E is concentrated in green leafy vegetables such as spinach and kale, nuts and vegetable oils. On the other hand, calcium is found in milk, leafy vegetables, tofu and fortified juices. Consult your physician or registered dietitian before taking any supplements for gallstones.
Weight Management
Overweight and obesity are among the leading risk factors for the development of gallstones. Because of that, it is important to achieve or maintain a healthy body weight through diet and physical activity. However, rapid weight loss is another risk factor for gallstones, so weight management efforts should be slow and steady. Ideally, overweight gallstone patients should aim to lose one to two pounds per week. In addition to aiding in healthy weight maintenance, regular exercise plays a protective role against gallbladder disease. According to MyPyramid.gov, it is recommended to be physically active for at least 30 minutes most days of the week.
References
- "Nutrition Therapy and Pathophysiology"; M. Nelms, K. Sucher, & S. Long; 2007
- Mayo Clinic: Gallstone Treatment
- American Academy of Family Physicians: Gallstones--What Are They?
- USDA: Fluid Needs
- Mayo Clinic: Dietary Fiber
