Sometimes gallstones form in the gallbladder, preventing bile excretion and causing nausea, vomiting and pain. If diet modifications cannot control these symptoms, surgical gallbladder removal, or cholecystectomy, is necessary. This is one of the most common surgical procedures in the United States, according the the Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons. The surgery is usually laparoscopic -- through small incisions with long instruments.
Post-Operative Diet
The diet immediately following gallbladder surgery begins with small amounts of liquids and soft, bland foods. The patient must tolerate liquids or a diet of soft foods before leaving the hospital, and he must follow a low-fat diet for several weeks to months after the cholecystectomy. High-fat meals may cause gas, heartburn, diarrhea or belching because there is not enough bile in the small intestine to digest the fatty food correctly. Because bile is made in the liver, a small amount of bile secretes slowly into the small intestine after gallbladder removal, aiding in digestion.
Foods to Avoid
Patients should avoid fatty, fried, sugary and spicy foods following gallbladder removal to prevent uncomfortable digestive symptoms. These include pastries, sweets, nuts and processed convenience meals. Sometimes foods that are considered nutritious may also cause distress; these include whole grains, nuts, seeds and gaseous vegetables such as cabbage, beans or broccoli. Do not completely eliminate these foods if they cause digestive problems, but reduce their amount and frequency.
Foods to Include
Many nutritious foods can reduce uncomfortable digestive symptoms after gall bladder surgery. Low-fat dairy products such as skim milk and reduced-fat cheese and yogurt provide protein without unnecessary fat. Lean meats such as fish and skinless chicken are good low-fat options. Butter and oil are permitted, but no more than 2 to 3 tbsp. per day. Foods prepared in restaurants contain large amounts of fat and should be eaten only sparingly.
