Nutritional tips to help you reduce your gallstone risk

There is no fail-safe way to stop the formation of gallstones in the body, but certain eating habits can be beneficial in their prevention. Read on to learn more.

Although a diet high in fibre and low in fats is recommended for general health, there are no scientific grounds for believing that high fibre intake can favourably influence cholesterol metabolism, at least as far as gallstones are concerned.

• It is known, however, that the bile is more likely to form stones after the long period of fasting that occurs overnight, while we sleep.
• Because of this, some doctors recommend that people with gallbladder problems should eat a substantial breakfast, which will cause the bladder to empty itself and flush out any small stones and stagnant bile.
• Other doctors go even further, and advise patients to eat frequent small meals to maintain this filling and emptying cycle.

For years, people with gallstones have been warned to eliminate fats and cholesterol from their diets. This advice was based on the observation that most stones are formed of cholesterol.

• In fact, there's little evidence that a low-cholesterol diet will lower the risk of gallstones.
• Some clinicians even claim that the occasional fatty meal causes the gallbladder to empty itself, which may be beneficial.

• People with gallstones should avoid foods that cause them discomfort.
• Consume plenty of starchy foods with lots of fruits and vegetables.
• In addition to starch, fruit and vegetables, their diet should emphasize moderate servings of protein and small amounts of fat.
• Alcohol should be used in moderation, if at all, especially if the gallbladder disease also affects the liver and pancreas.
• If you can, avoid excessive weight gain.

Although there is no diet that will completely eliminate gallstones, there are some healthy eating habits that can help reduce your risk. Keep this guide in mind and remember to contact your doctor before making any dietary changes.