The gallbladder is a tiny organ located behind the liver which stores bile. In preparation for fat digestion, the gallbladder releases its contents into the gut. In certain populations, including those who use oral contraceptives or who are obese, the gallbladder can become inflamed, a condition known as cholecystitis, often in the presence of gallstones, called cholelithiasis. Dietary modification to eliminate fatty foods may significantly decrease the incidence of gallbladder symptoms.
Gallbladder Symptoms
Gallbladder symptoms are called biliary colic. Pain is located beneath the rib cage on the right side and tends to be excruciating and either constant or intermittent. There may be associated fever, sweating, nausea and vomiting. Because the gallbladder contracts in the presence of dietary fats, these symptoms often appear 30 minutes or so after eating a fatty meal.
Meat and Dairy
Frank Jackson, M.D., recommends avoiding whole milk and cheese products, as these foods are high in fat. If you include dairy in your diet, opt instead for skim milk or nonfat milk products. Avoid any fried or marbled meat, fish canned in oil and luncheon meats less than 95 percent fat-free. Substitute skinless meats, egg whites, and fish canned in water, or opt for vegan items.
Fruits and Vegetables
These foods are generally low in fat and should be a dietary staple if you have gallbladder pain. Avocados and olives are exceptions, as are fried vegetables and those prepared with butter, creams and oils. Limit your use of cooking oils. Season instead with lemon and vinegar, and choose among the healthy cooking methods for your vegetables: boiling, steaming or sauteing in broth.
Other Foods
Sweets and desserts are generally high in fat and/or sugar. Fruits are a low-fat alternative to satisfy your sweet tooth. Avoid milkshakes and cream-based soups. If you must use oil, limit its use to no more than one or two tablespoons. Nuts and seeds are also mainly fat and should be eaten sparingly.
Tips
The more fat in the diet, the more the gallbladder contracts, and the greater the likelihood of pain in susceptible individuals. Try to choose one fat for the day -- avocado, for example -- and have it at one meal. Remember, all foods, even raw fruits and vegetables, contain some amount of fat. A useful motto is "Don't go looking for fat; fat will find you."
Warning
Though the majority of gallstones are pain-free, large stones can obstruct the pancreas and cause inflammation. If you experience gallbladder symptoms that do not abate with dietary modification, surgery is an option. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a same-day procedure with low incidence of complications. Medications which dissolve stones are another option in patients with a functioning gallbladder in whom dietary modifications have failed. Ask your doctor.
References
- "Essentials of Emergency Medicine"; Richard Aghababian; 2010
- "Jackson/Siegelbaum Gastroenterology: Low Fat Diet"
- "Current Medical Diagnosis and Treatment"; Stephen McPhee; 2009
- "The Paradigm Diet"; Adam Dave, M.D.; 2010
Member Comments