Dos and Don'ts When You Have Been Diagnosed with Gallstones

When you are diagnosed with gallstones, it is often recommended to make changes to your diet. While dietary changes may not completely rid you of gallstones, they can help to better control and prevent further stone development.

So what kind of diet should you follow when you have been diagnosed with gallstones? Here's what to eat and what to avoid.

Do not consume foods high in saturated fat

The main advice to follow when choosing foods after you have been diagnosed with gallstones is to avoid products that are high in saturated fat.

Studies have been conducted that have revealed that the chances of developing gallstones are lower in those on a low-fat diet. This is because saturated fat is known to contribute to gallstone formation. In a study of men, it was found that those on a low-fat diet were 18% less likely to suffer from gallstones.

So, cut down on foods like meatloaf, cream, hard cheeses, and fatty cuts of meat.

Seek to lose weight gradually

Maintaining a healthy weight is important to prevent gallstones. However, if you are trying to lose weight, it is important that you do it gradually. This is because a link between rapid weight loss and the development of gallstones has been identified.

Experts recommend trying to lose 1 to 2 pounds. To reduce your risk, you should exercise once per week.

Don't drink alcohol to excess

Excessive alcohol consumption can also cause gallstones to recur. While it's not listed as a primary cause like anything else, excessive levels can cause all kinds of problems for the body.

On the contrary, there is evidence to support that a low level of alcohol consumption can actually help reduce the risk of developing gallstones. So if you're just drinking socially, or one alcoholic drink a day, it might even protect you against the condition. Only when you drink a lot can the condition make it worse. This is because it can lead to cirrhosis of the liver, known to stimulate stone formation.

Eat more nuts

Some studies have shown that eating nuts regularly can reduce the development of gallstones. Make peanuts and cashews your go-to nuts for health benefits. A high fiber diet is known to reduce the risk of gallstones, something that walnuts are often packed with.

Change your diet after surgery

If you had surgery to remove your gallbladder, you may notice that your stools are loose or you may have diarrhea for a few weeks afterward. This is because more bile enters the intestines.

You can avoid certain foods to reduce these side effects, such as fatty processed foods and whole dairy. Your surgeon will be able to provide you with more precise dietary advice to follow after the procedure.

Here are some of the most important steps to take when you have been diagnosed with gallstones. What you eat can make a big difference in the symptoms you experience, as well as the likelihood of a recurrence.

 symptoms you experience, as well as the likelihood of a recurrence.