Diet for Gallbladder Attacks

The gallbladder is a small organ which stores bile produced by the liver. Its purpose is to help the digestive process, but the gallbladder can be removed. Gallbladder problems usually center around the formation of stones, which are hardened pieces of bile. There are several contributing factors to gallstones, including heredity, weight and age, but the main cause is thought to be a high-fat, high-cholesterol diet. Gallstones can lead to gallstone attacks, episodes of abdominal pain, nausea and fever. If you suffer from gallstone attacks, there are changes in diet you can make to lessen them.

Fats

Fats and cholesterol are thought to be the culprits behind the formation of gallstones, but research shows not all cholesterol leads to stones. Omega-3 fats and monounsaturated fats, such as those found in olive oil, can actually be beneficial in preventing gallstones. Nevertheless, since eating heavy meals rich in fat can trigger gallstone attacks, eating light meals low in fats and high in natural vitamins and fiber is a good way to avoid them.

Coffee

According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, coffee can also help prevent the formation of gallstones, as it stimulates gallbladder contractions and lowers the level of cholesterol in the bile. Be warned that other drinks which contain caffeine, such as sodas and teas, do not seem to provoke the same reaction.

Vegetables

GallbladderAttack.Com recommends a diet high in fresh vegetables, especially organic vegetables, to help stave off gallbladder attacks. Particularly helpful are beets, tomatoes, cucumbers, okra, garlic, onions, shallots, celery, avocados and carrots, as well as leafy greens such as swiss chard and dandelion greens. The site does have a list of vegetables to avoid, however, with cauliflower, cabbage and turnips making the list.

Meat

Fish is not only a good source of protein but is also a good source of helpful fat. Fatty meats such as pork should be avoided, however.

Preparation

Since you are trying to avoid too much fat and cholesterol, especially bad fats, steam your food or cook it with water instead of frying or using oil. Avoid eating fast food or processed foods, as they can be a source of a great deal of hidden and not-so-hidden fat. Also, since overeating and heavy meals can trigger gallbladder attacks, it is advisable to eat frequent small meals rather than two or three large ones each day.

Warning

If you are having gallstone attacks, see your doctor immediately. If a gallstone becomes lodged in the bile duct, it may become inflamed and infected, which can be a very serious condition. Surgery may be needed to get rid of your gallstone problem and to completely stop the gallstone attacks. The gallbladder is not an essential organ, and gallbladder surgery is common and relatively low-risk.