Your gallbladder stores and concentrates bile produced by the liver. Two common diseases of the gallbladder are gallstones -- hardened deposits that can become lodged in a duct -- and gallbladder inflammation. A diseased gallbladder can cause serious pain and need treatment ranging from lifestyle changes to surgery. If your doctor recommends a diet adjustment it likely will include a moderate amount of calories and a low quantity of fat.
High-Fiber Foods
According to MayoClinic.com, eating high-fiber foods can help reduce painful gallstone formation. Emphasize whole grains over refined grains to increase fiber. Examples of whole grains include oatmeal, 100 percent whole wheat bread, brown rice and quinoa. Also include plenty of brightly colored fruits and vegetables, including berries, tomatoes, squash and bell peppers, as long as they are raw or cooked using healthy methods such as steaming and baking.
Healthy Fats and Lean Proteins
Gallbladder problems are more likely when you eat a fatty diet. As a result, lean proteins such as beans, lentils, chicken, turkey and fish should make up a big part of your diet. Cut off any excess skin from your poultry, avoid buying fish packed in oil and stick to healthy cooking methods such as baking and grilling. Although your diet is safer with low quantities of fat, you shouldn't completely eliminate fats from your diet. Instead, emphasize heart-healthy fats such as olive oil, vegetable oil, nuts, seeds, fish and avocados.
Limits
The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends limiting or eliminating trans fatty acids, which are found in foods such as onion rings, donuts, fried vegetables, margarine, commercially baked goods and French fries. Eating these fats boosts your chances of having gallbladder attacks and can lead to other health issues such as increased cholesterol levels. Likewise, foods high in saturated fat and cholesterol are known to contribute to gallbladder problems so cut back on fatty meats such as ribs and luncheon meat, avoid eating eggs prepared using butter and replace whole-fat dairy products with low-fat versions, according to Camp Hill, Pennsylvania's Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology. Most junk foods also are high in saturated or trans fats so read labels carefully.
Supplement Considerations
According to MayoClinic.com, you can be at greater risk of gallstones if you don't get enough vitamins C or E or calcium in your diet. You may benefit from taking supplements but as of 2011 there is not enough proof that these supplements prevent gallstones. If you find that you're having trouble getting enough fiber in your diet, supplement with 1 to 3 tsp. of flaxmeal a day. Generally, however, getting nutrients from food rather than supplements is better for your body. Ask your doctor whether she thinks you would benefit from supplementing your current diet.
