The gallbladder is an organ below the liver that is responsible for storing the bile, a substance secreted by the liver for fat digestion. Conditions such as gallstones and inflammation may result in severe pain. Drug and diet therapy may be used to control the pain and other symptoms that may develop with these conditions.
High Amounts of Fat
Fat consumption stimulates bile secretion and gallbladder contraction; this may increase your pain. Limit the content of fat in your food. Cut out deep fried food. Avoid adding dressings, creams and sauces to add flavor to your food. Refrain from consuming baked goods such as cakes, cookies and pies because these are high in fat, especially saturated fats. Saturated fat can also be found in products prepared with lard and butter.
Protein
Don't choose sausages, ham, canned meat, bacon, salami or any other processed meat as your protein source. They are high in fat. Also avoid canned meats and fish such as salmon, tuna or sardines packed in oil.
Gas-forming Food
Gallbladder attacks can result in severe pain that may be worsened by gas and bloating caused by food. Avoid eating beans, cabbage, broccoli and onions. Refrain from eating raw vegetables because the fiber may result in gas production in your intestines. Also skip carbonated and caffeinated beverages. Refrain from consuming sugar alcohols found in sugar-free candy and gum. Read the label and avoid products with sugar alcohols such as xylitol and sorbitol.
Things Poorly Tolerated
If you do not tolerate lactose, avoid drinking whole milk. Opt for low-fat or skim milk instead. Avoid large meals. Keep your meals small and frequent. Monitor your intake and eliminate those foods that you tolerate poorly.
References
- American Dietetic Association: Gallbladder Nutrition Therapy
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: Gallstones
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Gallbladder Disease
- American College of Gastroenterology: Belching, Bloating and Flatulence
- American Heart Association: Fat



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