What Foods Help Gallbladder Attacks?

A gallbladder attack is characterized by an improperly functioning gallbladder. Symptoms usually include nausea, dizziness, vomiting, gas, and pain throughout your shoulder and abdominal areas. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, these attacks can develop from fatty food consumption or gallstones. Adjusting your diet to include gallbladder-friendly foods can decrease your attacks.

Vegetables and Fruits

According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, consuming a diet rich in vegetables and fruits decreases your risk for gallstone development. Gallstones occasionally require gallbladder movement as a form of treatment. Fruits and vegetables can also strengthen your gallbladder and build your immune system since they contain vital antioxidants and vitamins. Examples of gallbladder-friendly foods include oranges, apples, watermelon, spinach, kale, pears, mustard greens, collard greens, cantaloupe, strawberries, blueberries, romaine lettuce, cabbage and other leafy greens.

Whole Grains

High fiber intake is associated with reduced risk for gallstones and other gallbladder-related diseases. Whole grains are naturally loaded with fiber, which promotes gallbladder functions. Physicians initially recommend fiber to slow and prevent gallbladder disease development. Fiber is also beneficial for alleviating gallbladder disease-related symptoms such as diarrhea, pain and nutrient loss.

Healthy Fats

Incorporating healthy fats into your diet is important to prevent gallbladder attacks. Dr. Elizabeth Lipski in "Digestive Wellness" notes that consuming excessive amounts of saturated fats can often lead to gallstone formation. As a result, consume a diet rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, both healthy sources. These fats are commonly found in sources such as fish, nuts and plant oils. Specific examples include salmon, sardines, almonds, herring, Brazil nuts, canola oil, flaxseed oil, olive oil, mackerel, halibut and cod fish.

Fluids

To help reduce gallbladder attacks, drink a minimum of 64 oz. of water daily to properly hydrate your body and flush toxins away. According to "Gallbladder Disease, An Issue of Gastroenterology Clinics" by Dr. Cynthia Ko, drinking water also reduces stress on your gallbladder and liver by helping them properly break down fats and reduce your symptoms.