Gallstones are found in the gallbladder, the sac located under the liver where bile is stored until needed for digestion. Most people with gallstones have no symptoms. However, intense pain in the abdomen or under the right shoulder blade, nausea, and belching may be experienced when the gallstone gets stuck in the cystic or common bile duct as it's leaving. The common treatment for gallstones is to remove the gallbladder, but there are alternatives to surgery.
Causes
Bile is made of many different substances, and gallstones are formed when there's an imbalance in the composition. One of the main causes of bile imbalance is a low-fiber diet high in refined carbohydrates, sugar and fat. Other risk factors include obesity and constipation. Dr. Michael Murray says that women are two to four times more likely to get gallstones due to pregnancy, oral contraceptives or other causes of elevated estrogen levels.
Foods to Eat
Focus on whole, unprocessed foods. Eat a diverse assortment of vegetables, fruit, whole grains, legumes, nuts and seeds. Ground flaxseed and oat bran help balance bile salts and promote healthy bowel movements. Increase bile flow by eating radishes, including Daikon radish, but do not eat a large amount if you have gallbladder disease. Drink at least six 8-oz. glasses of pure water each day to support liver function and bile balance. Encourage estrogen metabolism by eating cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, collard greens and cabbage.
Foods to Avoid
Avoid all fried foods; milk, cheese, butter and ice cream; hydrogenated oils; palm oil; and vegetable shortening. Eat less meat, especially pork and other fatty types. Avoid known food allergens, which can bring on a gallbladder attack. Dr. Murray says the most common food allergies in patients with symptoms are onions, eggs and chocolate. Avoid using antacids. If you have gallstones, avoid drinking coffee (regular and decaffeinated) because it induces gallbladder contractions. Avoid any food or beverage that gives you discomfort.
Natural Therapies
According to Dr. Pier Tsui-Po, acupuncture and Chinese herbs are used to help liver and gallbladder function, reduce pain and symptoms, and remove stones. A nutritionist can structure a healthy diet and suggest herbs and cleanses.
References
- The Encyclopedia of Healing Foods; Michael Murray, N.D.; 2005
- How Acupuncture Treats Gallstones or Gallbladder Pain
