As your liver produces bile, a liquid used to help break down foods during digestion, it is stored in your gallbladder. The gallbladder is a balloon-like organ responsible for storing bile and releasing this liquid as you consume food. If bile contains an excessive amount of cholesterol, gallstones can form. There are two types of gallstones -- cholesterol and pigment -- and if these stones block the flow of bile, you can experience a gallbladder attack. Preventing such an event can be done by avoiding certain foods and checking with your doctor to determine if you have gallstones.
Antioxidant-Rich Foods
The University of Maryland Medical Center reports foods that are rich in antioxidants can help treat and prevent gallbladder disease, which includes gallbladder attacks. Theoretically, there is a connection between gallstone formations and a lack of antioxidants in your system. The November 2004 issue of the “International Journal of Clinical Chemistry” found participants with cholesterol gallstone disease showcased a lack of micronutrient antioxidants. A pilot study published in the February 1997 issue of the “Nutrition” journal found a direct connection between low antioxidants, specifically alpha-tocopherol or vitamin E, and the formation of gallstones. While these studies are not conclusive, and further research is required, initial evidence suggests antioxidant-rich foods can help reduce or potentially prevent gallbladder attacks.
High Fiber
Fiber is among the most vital compounds to support healthy bodily functions as it plays a direct role in digestion and cholesterol reduction. In the April 1999 issue of “The American Journal of Surgery,” researchers gave 30 prairie dogs a cholesterol-supplemented lithogenic diet. Out of the 30 animals, 10 were given psyllium and 10 were given cellulose fiber. At the conclusion of the six-week study, researchers found dogs who were given psyllium fiber showcased a substantial reduction in cholesterol saturation when compared to cellulose and non-fiber groups. While further studies are required to determine the true value of fiber against gallstones, initial evidence suggests psyllium fiber inhibits the formation of cholesterol stones by reducing biliary cholesterol.
Omega-3 Foods
Omega-3 fatty acids are classified as essential fatty acids as it is a required nutrient for your body to operate properly; however, this compound must be consumed through dietary sources as your body can’t make it on its own. One of the main health benefits of omega-3 fatty acids is the reduction of total cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Richard Hoffman, M.D., CNS, founder of The Hoffman Center in New York and former president of the American College for Advancement in Medicine, notes that consuming omega-3 fatty acids from fish may potentially inhibit the formation of cholesterol in bile. By hindering bile cholesterol formation, omega-3 fatty acids may prevent the development of cholesterol gallstones.
Milk Thistle
While milk thistle isn’t technically a food source, this herb has showcased promise for reducing the likelihood of developing gallstones and preventing gallbladder attacks. The primary active compound in milk thistle is a group of flavonoids known as silymarin. These compounds are believed by researchers to repair damaged liver cells and promote new liver cell growth. These compounds are also noted as having potent antioxidant qualities, which may help prevent gallbladder attacks. Consume 80 to 160 mg of milk thistle extract two to three times per day. Make sure the extract has a 70 to 80 percent silymarin concentration. Due to the risk of adverse side effects, discuss the use and safety of milk thistle with your physician.
References
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse; Gallstones; July 2007
- “Nutrition” Journal; A Pilot Study of Antioxidant Intake in Patients With Cholesterol Gallstones; H.V. Worthington, et al.; February 1997
- “International Journal of Clinical Chemistry”; Dietary Antioxidants Lack, Impaired Hepatic Glutathione Reserve, and Cholesterol Gallstones; L.P. Hunt, et al.; November 2004
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Gallbladder Disease; Steven D. Ehrlich; February 2010
- “The American Journal of Surgery”; Soluble Dietary Fiber Protects Against Cholesterol Gallstone Formation; W.H. Schwesinger, et al.; April 1999
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Omega-3 Fatty Acids; Steven D. Ehrlich; June 2009
- The Hoffman Center; Gallbladder Disease; Ronald Hoffman, M.D., CNS
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Milk Thistle; Steven D. Ehrlich; March 2009
- "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition"; Cholesterol-Lowering Effects of Dietary Fiber: A Meta-Analysis; Lisa Brown, et al.; January 1999
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