The gallbladder is a pear-shaped organ in your body that helps process and digest fats. The gallbladder assists the liver in breaking down fats by storing bile and sending that bile to the small intestine, which then breaks down fat. If the gallbladder is removed, the body can continue to function and compensate for the absence of the organ, but digestion and absorption may be hindered, and diet modifications may be necessary.
The Gallbladder Diet
The Gallbladder Diet is designed specifically for those who suffer from gallbladder diseases. GallbladderAttack.com explains that this diet should focus on fresh, organic fruits and vegetables, and good fats and oils such as omega-3 fatty acids. The foods on the diet include beets, cucumbers, avocados, onions, garlic, vinegars, tomatoes, cold water fish, lemons, berries, papaya, and self-juiced apple, grape and vegetable juices. You should avoid problem foods like those that include gluten, and fatty or high-cholesterol foods such as eggs, fried foods, saturated fats, dairy products, red meats, spicy foods, artificial sweeteners and preservatives.
Low-Fat Diet
Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology's website lists a low-fat diet designed for gallbladder disease. The daily diet consists of 2 cups of milk or milk products that are skim or low-fat, four low-fat, whole-grain bread and grain servings, three or more fresh vegetable servings without added fat, two servings of fresh fruit, and 5 to 6 oz. of lean beef, poultry and fish. Tips for this diet include trimming visible fat from meats and avoiding purchase of "marbled meats," as these meats are more difficult to de-fat. Avoid using dips, butters, oils and dressings on salads, breads, potatoes and pastas. Drink water throughout the day and avoid carbonated or high-calorie beverages, including alcoholic drinks.
Vegetarian Diet
A proper diet for those who suffer with gallbladder problems includes high fiber foods including fruits and vegetables, whole grains and select dairy products. The vegetarian diet emphasizes the consumption of wholesome, fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as nutrient-dense foods found in whole-grain products. Limiting or eliminating red or fatty meats will be beneficial to your gallbladder's health, explains Gallbladder Health. The website also explains that "overworking your gallbladder by eating lots of high cholesterol, fatty foods is likely to result in gallbladder attacks and gallstones." Therefore, as with any other diet, avoid preparing foods with added oils, fats or grease. Vegetarian diets also obtain essential nutrients like protein from other sources, such as tofu and legumes. There are many different options and varieties in following a vegetarian diet for gallbladder health.
Mediterranean Diet
Mediterraneandiet.com explains that the basic premise behind the Mediterranean diet is the high consumption of virgin olive oil, fruits and vegetable, nonrefined carbohydrates, fish, eggs, milk and cheese, and a moderate consumption of saturated fats. A modified version of the Mediterranean diet, such as eliminating eggs and consuming only low portions of saturated fats, is one way to consume the necessary fresh fruits, vegetables, grains and healthy fats necessary for improved gallbladder function.
