Gallstone Treatment And Gallbladder Surgery Diet

I just found out that I have a gallstone. Is there a special diet which I should follow? Is there any way to flush it out or do I have to have it removed through surgery?

The gallbladder which is part of the biliary system is a small sac like organ. It is situated just below the liver in the upper right portion of the abdomen. The gallbladder normally acts as the storage center for bile, which is later released for digestion. The formation of gallstones is therefore not only painful but interferes with the digestive functions. Gallstones form within the gallbladder but can also move out, causing other problems. In most cases there is no real need for surgery and as with kidney stones dietary changes can remedy the problem. Following the right diet can help prevent and restrict the formation of gallstones and can also cure gallstones.

Gallbladder Diet For Gallstone Complications

Here are some tips for a gallstone diet to help flush out and prevent the occurrence of gallstones.

• An unhealthy diet that is high in cholesterol and fat is the main cause of gallstones. Make every effort to avoid and eliminate cholesterol, fatty foods and processed foods in your diet. This is particularly important during the first two weeks of commencing your treatment.
• Fruits and vegetables are essential for any healthy and well balanced diet, with a gallstone diet being no exception. Raw fruits and vegetables are recommended over cooked or processed and tinned varieties. Both vegetables and fruits have a high content of water soluble fiber, which helps flush your system naturally.
• Eat healthy carbohydrate rich foods. Always opt for whole grains, like whole wheat and whole cereal instead of the processed varieties as those are low in fiber. For example switch to brown bread instead of the processed white bread.
• While milk and other dairy products are part of healthy diet it is important that you only consume fat free and skimmed milk. Avoid sour cream, cheese spreads, whole milk cheese and whole milk, and consume the low fat products in moderation.
• Protein and meats are also a fixture in any balanced diet, but it is important that you identify healthy protein sources that are low in fats. Always avoid fatty meats and switch to lean meats, poultry, fish and luncheon meats that are 95% fat free.
• Avoid aerated and caffeinated drinks. Instead drink a lot of water and fruit juices.
• Be careful when it comes to desserts as well since most cakes, cookies, chocolates and pies are rich in fats.

In addition to these diet tips make sure you implement a disciplined routine with fixed meal and sleep times. It would also be a good idea to visit your physician or nutritionist for a diet plan formulated specifically for your needs.