The liver is one of the most critically important organs in the human body, while the gallbladder plays an accessory role in the digestion of fats and proteins. A healthy diet, light on the substances that can overly stress these organs, can help prevent liver disease, gallbladder inflammation and gallstones. A diet which helps maintain a healthy weight will also support liver and gallbladder function.
Liver Function
The liver is the largest organ in the human body. The liver performs thousands of functions critical to human metabolism, according to the Hepatitis Foundation International. One function of the liver is to remove chemicals and toxins that enter the bloodstream from food, air or absorption through the skin. The liver also takes in the nutrients broken down from foods by the small intestine and stores and distributes them for use throughout the body.
Liver and Diet
A number of dietary substances can overburden and stress the liver. Among these are excessive protein, especially from meat. When more protein is consumed than the liver can swiftly process, a build-up of toxins can interfere with brain function and cause mental confusion. Alcohol and excessive salt and fat should also be avoided for optimal liver health, according to the Hepatitis Foundation International. A healthy diet can help maintain a healthy liver and repair liver cells damaged by alcohol or diseases such as hepatitis.
Gallbladder Function
The gallbladder is a small sac that stores bile produced by the liver. The gallbladder releases bile into the upper small intestine when fats are present, as the bile breaks down fats during digestion, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Bile can crystallize into gallstones composed either of cholesterol or calcium according to the Harvard Medical School. Gallstones can cause inflammation of the gallbladder, or block the bile ducts causing painful gallbladder attacks.
Gallbladder Diet
Maintaining a healthy weight and consuming a diet low in fat supports gall bladder health and helps prevent gallbladder disease, according to Net Wellness, a consumer health information service of the University of Cincinnati, the Ohio State University and Case Western Reserve University. Emphasize fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, beans and lentils and low-fat white meats and fish to support effective gallbladder function.
Considerations and Warnings
Vitamins A and D are also stored in the liver and can reach toxic levels with over-consumption. Aspirin, ibuprofen and herbs like mate, pennyroyal and comfrey are also toxic to the liver, according to the Hepatitis Foundation International. Consult a physician before taking dietary supplements, especially if you already have a compromised liver function. While maintaining a healthy weight can help prevent or diminish liver and gallbladder disease, rapid weight loss may cause or exacerbate gallstones, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Opt for a nutritious, varied diet and daily exercise for slow, steady weight loss to support liver and gallbladder health.
References
- Hepatitis Foundation International: Caring For Your Liver
- Net Wellness: What Type of Diet Should I Be On If I Have Gall Bladder Problems?
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: Dieting and Gallstones
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Gallbladder Disease
- Harvard Medical School Family Health Guide: What To Do About Gallstones
