Gallstone Disease & Foods To Avoid

Gallbladder disease is a condition that develops when gallstones form in the gallbladder. Gallstones are pebble-like particles that develop from cholesterol left over when the gallbladder fails to empty properly. According to Dr. Karen Carlson, women are more likely than men to suffer from gallbladder disease. Often, gallbladder disease is completely asymptomatic. Other times you may experience nausea, vomiting or severe pain on the upper right abdomen, usually following a meal. There are certain foods you can avoid to deter a gallbladder attack, but gallbladder disease can also be a serious condition requiring surgery. Seek medical attention if you suspect you have gallbladder disease or are having symptoms of an attack.

Lactose

Lactose, an ingredient in many dairy products, can trigger a gallbladder attack. Dairy products include ice cream, milk, powder milk, yogurt, margarine and butter, cheese and heavy cream. Some breads, cookies, cereals, baked products and some processed foods may also include lactose. Check the ingredient labels of all products prior to consumption.

Fatty Foods

If you suffer from gallbladder disease, avoid eating foods high in trans or saturated fats. On ingredient labels, trans fats may also be referred to as partially hydrogenated oils. Fatty meats such as lamb, pork and beef are high in saturated fats. Poultry should be trimmed of all fat prior to cooking. Lard, coconut oil and palm oil should also be avoided if you have gallbladder disease. The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests replacing those oils with flaxseed oil or olive oil.

Spicy Foods

Spicy food can cause a gallbladder attack and should be avoided, although the tolerance to spicy food varies from person to person. Foods flavored with black, red or cayenne pepper, chili or curries can cause discomfort. Jalapeno or habanero peppers and condiments like hot sauce or wasabi should also be avoided. This doesn't mean that all your food must be bland. Try using ginger or turmeric. Both are flavorful and may also aid your digestive process.