The gallbladder is a small sac-like organ located just under the liver. The function of the gallbladder is to store bile produced by the liver. During digestion, the gallbladder releases bile into the small intestine, which aids in the breakdown of fats. The flow to the small intestine can become easily blocked, usually by a stone. When this occurs, it can be very painful, and in some cases, either the stone or the entire gallbladder will have to be removed. Eating the correct diet before and after gallbladder disease is very important for digestive health.
Gallbladder Disease
Gallbladder disease can manifest in two forms: cholecystitis and cholelithiasis. Cholecystitis is inflammation of the gallbladder, and cholelithiasis is the formation of gallstones. Gallstones are made of cholesterol and are the more common type of gallbladder disease. The formation of gallstones can occur over a 10-year period. During that period, many people do not know they have gallstones. Symptoms of a gallbladder attack include abdominal pain, pain between the shoulder blades, nausea, and vomiting. You should seek medical attention if any of these symptoms persist.
Risk Factors
Developing gallbladder disease is highly related to gender, metabolic syndrome and diabetes. Women are more likely to develop gallstones, with an increased risk during pregnancy. Metabolic syndrome includes having low good cholesterol, or HDL; high triglycerides; obesity; and high blood pressure. Each of these conditions will increase the risk of producing gallstones. Diabetics are at a higher risk for having an inflamed gallbladder with no gallstones.
Foods For Gallbladder Health
Consuming a low-fat, low-cholesterol diet will decrease the risk of developing metabolic syndrome and can decrease the amount of gallstones produced. Eat foods such as cucumbers, avocados, beets, sweet potatoes, apples and pears. High fiber fruits and vegetables can aid in weight control and also decrease the severity of gallbladder attacks. Vegetable juices and lemon juice in the morning can help cleanse the liver.
Foods To Avoid
Fatty foods can cause you to experience a gallbladder attack. Avoid fatty, fried and processed foods. Foods made with high amounts of vegetable oil can also trigger symptoms. According to Gallbladderattack.com, eggs caused attacks in 95 percent of patients. Gluten products such as wheat, barley and rye can also have negative effects. Do not consume high amounts of alcohol, soda, coffee or citrus juices.
