Gallbladders aren’t essential organs but do have the primary function of transporting bile to the intestine for fat metabolism. They are small, only about three inches long, and have a diameter of 1.6 inches.
When Solid waste such as calcium, cholesterol, or bilirubin builds up in the gallbladder, it forms a gallstone.
According to PubMed Central, around 20 million people, of which 14 million are women and 6 million men between the ages of 20 and 74 years in the United States, are affected by this medical condition.
Gallstones are usually asymptomatic and require no medical intervention; however, it is not uncommon to see people with extremely large gallstones that would need surgery.
If not properly managed, it can result in sudden excruciating pain in the abdomen, specifically between the rib cage and the belly.
While eating healthy is a sure way to keep a healthy gallbladder, some food can increase the risk of developing this condition.
Foods to avoid Gallstone complications
In this article, we will explore the top 8 foods to avoid gallstone complications.
1. High-Fat Dairy Products
High-fat dairy products like milk and cheese are terrible food choices if you have a gallstone. Alternative low-fat dairy products may suffice to satisfy your cravings if you love dairy food. When making purchases for groceries, always check out the fat content in the nutritional label of each label.
Recommended fat content considered safe for consumption shouldn’t exceed 5 grams per ounce. Other food options you can choose to replace high-fat dairy products include a non-dairy frozen dessert.
2. Avocado
Fruits and vegetables generally are high in fiber and have low-fat content, making them an excellent choice for a gallstone diet; however, not every fruit is considered healthy for gallstone patients, one of which is Avocado.
Avocado contains high-fat content, which you should avoid. Instead, replace Avocado with nuts better in your meal as this is a suitable alternative.
3. Refined Grains
Refined carbohydrates such as white rice and white flour contain low fiber contents, increasing the risk of gallstone. You can replace refined carbohydrates with unrefined grains such as whole grains, barley, and oats, essential nutrients.
4. Fatty Meats
Regular consumption of meat sounds like a healthy lifestyle. However, if you have gallstones, some types of meat are not fit for consumption. You should avoid consuming fatty meats and opt for safer lean meats such as red meat, turkey, and chicken.
You should avoid eating the skin of both the turkey and chicken as these are areas for fat deposition. You should also adopt safer meat processing methods such as baking and grilling.
5. Sugar and Caffeine
Soda and caffeinated drinks are unhealthy and not great food items to include in your diet. Carbonated drinks contain a high amount of sugar, which can increase the risk of gallstone formation.
A suitable replacement for soda is to consume a lot of water or make a blend of fruits low in fat and enjoy excellent fruit shakes.
6. Processed Fish
Fish are a source of omega – 3 fat which is an excellent addition to your gallstone diet; however, not all types of fish are healthy for consumption.
Fishes stored in canned oil such as tuna and sardines are not beneficial to gallstone patients as they contain a high-fat level. Alternatively, fish such as salmon and fresh fish can replace oil-packed fish.
7. Processed Meats
Canned and processed meats such as sausage and hotdogs are unhealthy for inclusion in a gallstone diet. Processed meat has a high level of fat and can increase the risk of gallstone complications.
8. Solid Fat and Oil
Butter and oil are used for cooking activities such as baking, frying, and seasoning food items, making them a lousy inclusion in your gallstone diet. You can avoid using butter and oil altogether, and if not, you can ratio the quantity you use to prevent excess fat content in your meal. Alternatively, you can opt for low-fat content products available in the grocery store.
While gallstone formation might dissolve without treatment, consuming healthy food low in fat might be beneficial in preventing recurrence, inflammation and improving overall well-being.