Gallstones are crystallized bile that forms in the gallbladder. They affect an estimated 25 million Americans and are one of the most common digestive diseases. They can cause severe abdominal pain, fever and, more seriously, inflammation and infection of the gallbladder and pancreas. Those who eat a high-fat diet, have high levels of blood triglycerides or are obese are more likely to develop gallstones. Eating low-fat foods can help reduce the risk of developing gallstones as well as the pain associated with having them. A gallstone diet should be varied and include lots of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, fiber-rich carbohydrates and lean proteins.
Fats and Oils
Use low-fat spreads and avoid butter, margarine, lard and cooking oils. Nuts, nut butters, avocados and seeds are nutritious choices but should be used sparingly or not at all while on a low-fat diet because of their high fat content. Instead of frying or sauteing foods, choose methods such as baking, boiling, steaming or grilling. Cook with non-stick sprays.
Dairy Products
Just one 8 oz. glass of whole milk has almost 9 grams of fat--an amount that is more than 25 percent of the recommended daily allowance. Dairy products are a major contributor of fat in the American diet. Switching from higher-fat to lower-fat dairy products can have a significant impact on lowering total dietary fat intake. Choose low-fat or skim milk and low-fat cheeses, cottage cheese and yogurt. Opt for reduced-fat versions of sour cream and ice cream. Do without fat-laden coffee creamers.
Bread and Carbohydrates
Most breads, cereals, pastas, potatoes, rice and grain products are naturally low-fat. Opt for whole-grain choices and avoid fatty additions, such as sour cream with your baked potato or butter with your bread. Low-fat crackers, cookies, granola bars, rice cakes and fruit are good low-fat snacking options. Stay away from most cakes, pastries and doughnuts.
Proteins
Chicken and turkey breasts (without the skin) and fish such as tuna, salmon, cod and haddock, and shellfish are lean protein sources. Lean cuts of red meat with no visible fat, such as buffalo, pork loin and beef tenderloin, are also acceptable selections. Leave out fatty red meats, poultry skin, sausages and processed meats, such as salami, hot dogs and fish packed in oil.
Fruits and Vegetables
Most fruits and vegetables are naturally low in fat. Include an abundance of them in your diet and don't be tempted to add butter or high-fat salad dressings to your vegetables and salads.
Desserts
Everyone enjoys an occasional treat; however, many desserts are loaded with fats. Satisfy your sweet tooth without consuming a lot of fat by selecting low-fat pudding, angel food cake, fruit, frozen yogurt and sorbet.
Condiments and Sauces
Choose low-fat salad dressings, relish, salsa, ketchup or mustard to garnish foods. Tomato sauces, herbs, citrus juice and zest and chicken broth can add flavor to a meal without the added fat. Mayonnaise, creamy sauces, salad dressing, gravy, guacamole and hummus usually contain a high amount of fat and should be avoided.
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