The gallbladder's main function is to filter bile, a digestive fluid produced by the liver. A malfunctioning gallbladder may lead to gall stones. Symptoms include severe abdominal pain and nausea. Surgical removal of the gallbladder, also known as a cholecystectomy, should help relieve the pain. You willl need to make changes to your diet following gallbladder removal.
Post Cholecystectomy
Immediately following a gallbladder removal, you will typically follow a liquid diet. This helps the body and digestive tract recover from the surgery. Abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, nausea and diarrhea may occur the first few days after the procedure. Once bowel sounds are present, your doctor will advance your diet to solid foods. Slowly resume normal eating. If any symptoms arise, contact a physician immediately.
Lower Fat Intake
You will need to follow a low-fat diet after a gallbladder removal. Bile is a digestive fluid that helps break down fat. The liver continues to produce bile, but the gallbladder no longer exists to filter bile adequately. Consuming too much fat may result in bloating or diarrhea. Fat is prevalent in cookies, cakes, processed foods, oils, nuts and avocados. According to "Nutrition and Diet Therapy," your fat intake should range between 40 and 50g daily.
Choose High Fiber
You should also increase your fiber intake after gallbladder removal. Whole grains, such as brown rice, oatmeal and whole-wheat bread, fruits and vegetables are high-fiber foods. They are low in fat and aid in digestion. Fiber helps to increase satiety and encourages regular bowel movements. Choose fruits and vegetables with skin to increase fiber intake. Limit how many avocados you eat, as they're high in fat.
Switch to Lean Protein
Many high-protein foods have a higher fat content. Beef, poultry, full fat and 2 percent dairy are examples of such foods. After gallbladder removal, choose lean turkey or chicken, fish, low-fat or nonfat dairy, egg whites, beans and legumes. Keep portion sizes of meat or fish to between 4 and 6 oz. Protein intake should range from 40 to 50g daily.
