Gallstones are stones that form in bile, a watery substance involved in the digestion of food in the intestines. While most gallstones form inside the gallbladder, they can form anywhere the body stores bile. Gallstone formation is not directly affected by diet, but obesity and rapid weight loss can contribute to gallstone formation and diet can worsen or improve symptoms of gallstones in some cases.
Symptoms of Gallstones
Most cases of gallstones are asymptomatic, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, or NIDDK. In these cases, a diagnosis is made after the stones are detected on an ultrasound or X-ray. When symptoms do occur, it is usually because the stones are obstructing the bile ducts. The most common symptom of gallstones is biliary colic, which causes constant, severe pain that may persist for minutes or hours. The pain usually develops in the upper right abdominal region. Other symptoms of gallstones may include nausea and jaundice.
Managing Symptoms with Diet
Acute attacks of biliary colic may be more common following meals that contain large amounts of fat. In these cases, eating a low-fat diet can reduce the frequency and severity of the attacks. The amount of fat needed to trigger an attack varies by individual, with some people able to tolerate moderate amounts of dietary fat and others needing to cut out even trace amounts of fat from their diet. Hidden sources of dietary fat include coconut, olives, mayonnaise, salad dressings, cream sauces, butter and egg yolks. Keeping a food diary that details your menu and lists the time and circumstance of each gallstone attack may help you identify triggering foods.
Preventing Gallstones with Diet
A high-fiber diet low in sugar, fat and cholesterol may help prevent gallstones, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, and a deficiency in vitamin C or E may increase the risk of developing gallstones. To reduce your risk, eat a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables to increase your fiber and vitamin intake and include plenty of whole grains in your daily diet. Low-fat sources of calcium may also be beneficial, according to the NIDDK. Also, choose unsaturated fats over saturated and trans fats and speak with your doctor about vitamin supplements if you suffer from dietary restrictions that may interfere with your ability to take in enough vitamin C or E.
Considerations
Rapid weight loss, whether a result of severe caloric restriction or weight loss surgery, can cause gallstones. Because being very overweight or obese also increases your risk, healthy weight loss is essential to preventing and managing gallstones. Work with your doctor to develop a safe and healthy weight-loss program that includes a balanced diet and regular exercise. The Mayo Clinic recommends limiting weight loss to no more than 2 pounds per week.
