Gallstones are rock-like formations that build up in your gallbladder. Gallstones range from the size of a grain of sand to the size of a golf ball. Your body can form gallstones from cholesterol or bilirubin, although gallstones formed from cholesterol are more common, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. If you have gallstones, you may not experience any symptoms, or you may experience pain, fever or a yellowing of the skin. If you think you might have gallstones, see your doctor for testing. Your doctor will prescribe a treatment and diet plan that includes healthy foods.
High-Fiber Foods
MayoClinic.com suggests eating a diet rich in dietary fiber when you have gallstones. Eating large amounts of dietary fiber could help prevent additional stones from forming. Choose fresh fruit and vegetables that are high in fiber to benefit your gallbladder. Switch to whole-wheat bread products instead of eating white bread and start your day with a bowl of bran cereal to add even more fiber to your diet.
Low-Fat Foods
Eating a low-fat diet may help you experience less pain from your gallstones, according to the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospitals. Your body still needs some fat, however, so follow a low-fat diet and not a fat-free diet while you have gallstones. Choose low-fat spreads over traditional butter and try to cook without using fats such as olive oil. If you currently eat full-fat dairy products, switch to low-fat milk, cheese and yogurt. Avoid fried foods altogether and choose grilled, poached or baked foods instead to greatly reduce your fat intake. When purchasing meat, choose lower-fat options such as chicken and fish. You can still eat red meat as long as all visible fat has been removed.
Snack Foods
You can still eat snack foods while you're suffering from gallstones, but you should try to choose healthy options. The Norfolk and Norwich University Hospitals recommend choosing low-fat salad dressings and salsa over spreads like hummus and cream cheese, which contain a lot of fat. While you should avoid full-fat ice cream and pudding, you can enjoy healthier desserts such as flavored gelatin and puddings and ice cream made with skin milk. Steer clear of chocolate and other high-fat snacks such as nuts. Instead, opt for dried fruit or low-fat treats such as marshmallows and licorice.
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