If you have a bad gallbladder, avoiding certain foods can help avoid painful symptoms. Gallbladder disease affects as many as 20 percent of Americans, according to the University of Pennsylvania. Gallstones develop when the gallbladder fails to empty properly and bile hardens into rock-like stones. You may not notice any symptoms at all if you have gallstones, or you may experience pain after eating certain foods. Surgery is the preferred treatment for treating gallbladder disease, unless it is asymptomatic. See a physician if you suspect that you have gallbladder disease.
High Fat Foods
Eating fatty foods can sometimes trigger pain if you have gallbladder disease. Avoid foods high in saturated fats such as French fries, fatty meat, donuts, onion rings, cakes, fried chicken, and foods cooked with butter or lard. Instead, use olive oil or canola oil for cooking. Eat foods high in fiber and lean meats and poultry. Bake or grill meat and poultry instead of frying it. Increase your consumption of fruits, whole grains and vegetables, especially dark, leafy vegetables like spinach.
Eggs
Eggs can often trigger a gallbladder attack. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, this can be due to the cholesterol content in eggs or a food allergy. Limit your consumption of eggs. If you do eat eggs, prepare them poached, soft boiled or scrambled. Avoid fried eggs, especially when cooked in animal fat. Better yet, try an egg substitute, non-fat if available.
Dairy
Dairy products should be avoided if you have gallbladder disease. This includes not only milk, but also cheese, heavy cream, custard, yogurt and butter. Always be certain to check the ingredients of prepared and processed foods. They may contain milk derivatives such dried or powdered milk, lactose, curd, whey, milk proteins or buttermilk. Be aware that milk is also an ingredient in many baked products or baking mixes.
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