Gallbladder removal, called cholecystectomy, is sometimes necessary if you suffer from painful gallstones. It is usually a simple surgery with a fast recovery time. Often you can leave the hospital the same day you have your surgery, although a complete recovery takes about a week. In many cases, no special diet is required after this surgery, although some people might have to make dietary changes to limit side effects.
Low Fat
Smaller amounts of fat are easier for your body to digest, so at least in the beginning after your surgery, you might want to follow a low-fat diet until your body gets used to digesting fat, now that you no longer have a gallbladder. Although following a low-fat diet is not necessary for everyone, if you suffer from diarrhea after your gallbladder surgery, limiting your intake of fat might help control diarrhea, gas and bloating.
High Fiber
Gradually increasing the amount of fiber in your diet can also be helpful after you have your gallbladder removed. Fiber helps keep your bowel movements normal so you are less likely to suffer from constipation or diarrhea, but if you increase the amount of fiber you consume too quickly, it can cause gas or bloating.
Foods to Limit
Certain types of foods can make diarrhea more likely after cholecystectomy. If you continue to have problems with diarrhea, try limiting greasy foods, very sweet foods, dairy products and caffeine, recommends MayoClinic.com, as these can be harder to digest after gallbladder removal. However, if you are not suffering from diarrhea, you need not limit these foods.
Considerations
No set diet exists for the period after gallbladder removal. Many people are able to continue to follow a healthy diet. However, those who experience side effects might need to eat smaller meals more frequently and make other dietary changes to minimize the side effects they are experiencing. Speak with your doctor to determine the appropriate dietary changes for you.
References
- National Health Services: Do I Need to Change My Diet After Gallbladder Surgery?
- MayoClinic.com; "What's OK to Eat After Gallbladder Removal?"; Jennifer Nelson et al.; July 2011
- NYU Medical Center; "Gallbladder Surgery"; February 2000
- MayoClinic.com; "Cholecystectomy (Gallbladder Removal)"; December 2010
- MayoClinic.com; "Chronic Diarrhea: A Concern After Gallbladder Removal?"; Dr. Michael Picco; March 2011
