Cholecystitis is a condition that causes swelling and inflammation in the gallbladder. This condition causes you to experience constant bouts of gallbladder pain due to gallstones. Because cholecystitis is a chronic condition, you may wish to make changes to your diet on a permanent basis. Always talk to your physician before adjusting your diet.
Fats
Your gallbladder is responsible for storing bile, a substance that helps your body digest fats. When you eat foods high in fats, your gallbladder puts bile into your small intestine. This process can be inefficient, however, leading to blockage and the development of gallstones. For this reason, you may wish to reduce the amount of fats in your diet to lessen the demands on your gallbladder and the likelihood that gallstones will form. Low-fat foods include lean proteins that do not contain visible fat or oils, such as fish, chicken and turkey. Whenever possible, choose low-fat dairy products, such as low-fat milk, cheese and yogurt.
Sugars
Because sugars increase the likelihood gallstones will form, you may wish to cut back on the amount of sugars in your diet. Examples of foods high in sugars include soft drinks, cookies, cakes, pies and ice cream. These foods tend to be high in fat, and the sugar also can contribute to bloating and delayed stomach emptying.
Fiber
High-fiber foods help to maintain digestive regularity, which is important when you have chronic cholecystitis. Some high-fiber foods, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, are also high in nutrients that can fight inflammation in your body. Whole-grain options, such as whole-wheat bread, oats and bran cereal, also good sources of dietary fiber. If you are experiencing a bout of gallbladder irritation, however, you may wish to refrain from eating foods too high in fiber, as the fiber can be irritating to your bowels.
Considerations
Losing weight very quickly is linked with increased risk for experiencing cholecystitis, according to Net Wellness, a website of the University of Cincinnati. While it is important to eat a healthy diet low in fats, this does not mean your diet should be extremely low in calories. Talk to your physician about the appropriate calorie intake for you, and work to meet this calorie intake each day through eating a variety of whole grains, fruits, vegetables and lean proteins.
