The gallbladder is a small organ that stores bile, which is necessary to digest fat. Sometimes, the flow of bile from the gallbladder is blocked, creating a painful gallstone. A person who has frequent gallstones may need to have his gallbladder surgically removed in a procedure called a cholecystectomy. People who have their gallbladders removed can typically eat a regular diet after recovery. However, before surgery, you may need to follow a special low-fat diet to manage symptoms and slow deterioration of the gallbladder.
Low-Fat Diet
Because the gallbladder is needed to digest fat, a low-fat diet is recommended if you are developing gallstones. On a low-fat diet, fat should make up less than 30 percent of your daily calorie intake. To do this, limit high-fat foods by avoiding fried foods, high-fat meats, full-fat dairy, nuts, peanut butter and high-fat condiments such as mayonnaise and salad dressing. Instead, bake, boil or steam your foods. Switch to skim milk products, including fat-free ice creams, yogurts and cheeses. You can also include lean meats, such as poultry, in your diet.
Additional Dietary Tips
To aid in digestion, consume small meals at frequent intervals. This will help spread out your fat consumption throughout the day, instead of inundating your gallbladder with high levels of fat all at once. Eat a diet high in plant foods, such as fruits and vegetables, which are generally low in fat. Lastly, learn to read food labels. To be considered low fat, a product must have less than 3 grams of fat per serving. It is also important to note that the term "fat-free" on a food package does not necessarily mean it has no fat -- even if the Nutrition Facts Panel claims 0 grams of fat, there can still be up to 1/2 g of fat per serving.
Day of Surgery Diet
On the day of your surgery, you will need to fast. Typically, your doctor will advise that you not eat or drink anything after midnight on the day before your surgery; however, some surgeons only ask that you fast four hours prior to your surgery. In addition to food and drink, you may need to stop taking medications, vitamins and nutritional supplements on the day of your surgery. Be sure to speak to your surgeon about the specifics and how best to prepare.
Considerations
While diet can control the symptoms and pain associated with gallstones, if you are experiencing symptoms of gallstones, which include nausea, vomiting and pain in the abdomen, it is important to speak to your doctor. If you decide to try nutritional intervention such as a low-fat diet, be sure to visit your doctor or dietitian regularly to monitor your nutritional and medical status.
