Gallbladder removal surgery, also known as a cholecystectomy, is the most frequently performed surgery in the U.S. as of 2010. It is most often performed because of gallstones that can cause severe pain and vomiting. After removal of the gallbladder, the digestive system isn't able to digest fats as easily. The gallbladder stores bile and releases it during meals. With no gallbladder, bile is released by the liver in smaller, irregular quantities that is often not able to keep up with the digestion of fats. Diarrhea and bloating can result if too much fat is reintroduced into the diet too quickly.
Step 1
Eat frequent small meals throughout the day instead of three large meals. A smaller meal allows the digestive tract to digest the food more easily. Eat a small portion of food every two to three hours.
Step 2
Create small meals using foods low in fat, including lean meats without skin. Choose low-fat dairy products such as skim milk, low-fat cheeses and low-fat yogurt. Avoid fast food, which generally has large amounts of fat that may be difficult to digest. If fast food is unavoidable, choose a salad with low-fat dressing.
Step 3
Add fiber to each meal by incorporating whole grains, lentils or vegetables to each meal. Fiber aids digestion and helps food move through the digestive tract more quickly to decrease the opportunity for bloating to occur.
Step 4
Follow a low-fat diet for at least four to six weeks, or as recommended by your doctor. You can gradually begin to reintroduce fat to your diet over time. You should consult with your doctor or a dietician regarding the speed to which you can increase your fat intake. It varies from person to person. If you begin to experience stomach discomfort or bloating, decrease your fat intake and gradually work back up.
