Colelithiasis is a condition in which gallstones -- small, solid stones that develop from cholesterol and excess bilirubin -- form in the gallbladder. Your gallstone risk may increase with liver disease, diabetes mellitus and rapid weight loss. Although sometimes, the condition may present without symptoms, symptoms can include abdominal pain, nausea vomits and clay colored stools. When the condition is not severe and surgery to remove the gallbladder is not required, drug and nutrition therapy may help control the condition. Diets that are high in fat and cholesterol and low in fiber lead to increased cholesterol in the bile as well as a reduction in emptying of the gallbladder; this can increase the risk of developing gallstones.
Healthy Fats
Limiting your fat intake may help prevent your gallbladder from contracting and causing more pain. Limit your fat intake to no more than 30 percent of your total calorie intake. Select products with 3 g or less of fat per serving. Choose unsaturated fats such as soybean, canola and safflower oil. You should also refrain from adding sauces and dressings made with fat to your food. Avoid pastry products such as pies, doughnuts, cakes and cookies because these may be high in fat and refined sugars. Instead of frying your food, steam, bake, broil, boil or microwave it.
Lean Protein
Choose lean and extra lean meat as fatty meat is particularly high in both fat and cholesterol. Read the nutrition facts and select meat with 15 percent of fat or less per serving. Select lean beef cuts such as round steak and roast and pork cuts such as pork loin, tenderloin and center loin. Remove all visible fat from the meat. Avoid consuming processed meats such as potted meat, sausage, ham and bacon. Also avoid meat and fish canned in oil.
Dietary Fiber
Consuming high fiber foods may help prevent formation of additional gallstones. Fiber can be found in oats, whole grain, wheat bran, fruits, vegetables and legumes. Beans and lentils are foods with particularly high amounts of fiber.
Gas Forming Food
Gallstones may produce abdominal pain. Some types of food may increase your pain by producing gas and bloating. Avoid consuming corn, broccoli, cabbage, beans; these are some of the foods that produce gas. Refrain from consuming caffeinated products and carbonated and alcoholic beverages. Alcohol sugars such as xylitol and sorbitol, which are found in sugar free gum and candy may also produce gas and bloating.
References
- MedlinePlus: Gallstones
- MayoClinic.com: Nutrition and Healthy Eating
- The American College of Gastroenterology: Belching, Bloating and Flatulence
- MyPyramid.gov: Inside My Pyramid: Tips to help you make wise choices from the meat & beans group
- MayoClinic.com: Gallstones
- MayoClinic.com: Dietary Fiber: Essential for a Healthy Diet
