Healing Foods for Gallbladder & Ulcer

Healing Foods for Gallbladder & Ulcer
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If you've just learned that you not only have gallbladder disease but you also have ulcers, you may feel a bit overwhelmed. Gallbladder disease and ulcer are both conditions that are related to your digestive system. Foods in general will not heal or cure either condition but certain foods may help alleviate some symptoms. Before you modify your diet to treat a medical condition, talk with your doctor. Do not use foods to treat a condition that has not been clinically diagnosed by a physician.

Gallbladder and Ulcers

Gallbladder disease and ulcers are two different conditions. Your gallbladder is an organ that stores bile in case you eat large amounts of fat. Bile is essential to digest fatty foods. Gallbladder disease occurs when your gallbladder becomes infected or you develop gallstones. Ulcers occur in your throat, stomach or small intestines and are open sores that expose vulnerable soft tissue. Eating certain foods can cause pain, a burning sensation and general digestive discomfort with gallbladder disease and ulcers.

Vegetables and Fruits

Some foods may help your body heal or alleviate certain symptoms associate with gallbladder disease and ulcers. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, increase the amount of fiber you eat, particularly from vegetables and fruit. Eat foods rich in flavonoids, such as cranberries, onions, garlic, tea and apples. Foods that are high in iron and contain antioxidants and vitamin B, such as kale, spinach sea vegetables, squash, bell peppers, tomatoes, blueberries and cherries, may help both conditions.

Other Foods

Use healthy oils, such as olive oil, when cooking. Eat lean meats, such as chicken and fish, and avoid eating fatty meats, such as ground beef. Drink decaffeinated green tea or take green tea supplements for its antioxidant benefits.

Foods to Avoid

Remove all caffeine and alcohol from your diet. These two substances can aggravate your gastrointestinal system, making your symptoms worse. Caffeine is commonly found in coffee, tea, sport drinks, chocolate and energy drinks. Avoid eating foods that are highly processed, such as white bread, white pasta and lunch meat. Avoid spicy foods and citrus fruits to avoid triggering your symptoms.

Consideration

Ulcers may need to be treated with antibiotics because most ulcers are caused by bacteria that erode the lining of your digestive system. If you develop severe pain in your upper right abdomen, call your doctor. Potential infection may occur, in which case you may need to have your gallbladder removed.

References

Article reviewed by Sharon Last updated on: Jul 11, 2011

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