Nutrition Tips for Gallbladder: The Link Between Gallbladder Health and Overall Wellness

The gallbladder is not an organ we often consider, but it plays a significant role in the human body. It stores bile produced by the liver and releases it into the small intestine, breaking down fats and cholesterol.  

A healthy diet and exercise help keep the gallbladder functioning correctly, but issues may arise. Gallstone pancreatitis, cholecystitis, and gallbladder cancer may lead to gallbladder removal. The organ is unnecessary, but you must change your diet once it is removed. Most notably, you should avoid the fried, greasy, fatty foods the gallbladder helps your body digest.

This article will review what to eat after gallbladder surgery to ensure you stay healthy.

How Gallbladder Surgery Affects Digestion

The gallbladder releases bile in a controlled manner to aid digestion. Once the gallbladder is removed, the bile travels directly to the intestines. It produces a similar effect to a laxative, causing loose, watery stools and diarrhea for a few weeks to a month as your body adjusts.

Your diet has a direct impact on these symptoms. Small amounts of fat are easier to digest, while large amounts increase your risk of digestive issues.

What Not to Eat After Gallbladder Surgery

Patients should avoid the following foods:

  •   High-Fat Foods: Fat should account for no more than 30% of your daily intake. Avoid ultra-processed foods, full-fat dairy, and high-fat foods. They can worsen post-surgery symptoms.
  •   Spicy Foods: Spicy foods can irritate your stomach, contributing to diarrhea and other digestive issues.
  •   High-Fiber Foods: High-fiber foods work as a laxative. In most other instances, they are beneficial but can contribute to diarrhea after gallbladder surgery.
  •   Certain Drinks: Wait at least 48 hours after surgery to consume alcohol to give your body a chance to recover. Caffeinated drinks can increase stomach acid, contributing to gas and bloating. Sugary soda should also be avoided due to its sugar and caffeine content.

What to Eat After Gallbladder Surgery

So, what should you eat after gallbladder surgery? Here are a few suggestions.

  •   Fluids: Non-caffeinated, non-alcoholic, non-sugary drinks should be a significant part of your diet post-surgery. Staying hydrated will compensate for the vitamins, minerals, and fluids diarrhea can rob from the body. Clear liquids, broths, and gelatin are your best options.
  •   Low-fat Foods: Low-fat foods are easier to digest and less likely to cause digestive issues.
  •   High-fiber foods: These can increase the risk of diarrhea in the early stages of recovery, but you should gradually add it to your diet as you heal. These foods absorb water during digestion and slow digestion to prevent diarrhea and watery stools.

Supplements Can Improve Gallbladder Health

The gallbladder may not be necessary, but we would all prefer not to lose it. Fortunately, several supplements improve gallbladder health, ensuring they support digestion in the long term. Here are some recommended products.

  •   Pure Encapsulations Pure Lean Fiber: This prebiotic blend of soluble and insoluble fibers promotes healthy gut function. It supports weight management, stabilizes blood sugar and cholesterol, and prevents constipation.
  •   Seeking Health Gallbladder Nutrients: This supplement promotes gallbladder health by promoting healthy bile production, supporting liver health and the gallbladder’s squeezing function.
  •   Dr. Mercola Gallbladder Enzymes: Gallbladder Enzymes support well-being after gallbladder removal by relieving bloating, gas, and discomfort, stimulating movement through the digestive tract, and providing nutrients that are missing due to a limited diet.  
  •   DesBio Gallbladder Liver Meridian Opener: This homeopathic formula relieves symptoms like headache and abdominal pain that may occur when your gallbladder is overwhelmed. It improves overall health and promotes a sense of balance.

Conclusion

Gallbladder issues happen. Fortunately, they can be addressed with gallbladder removal. The procedure requires dietary changes, and you may wonder what to eat after gallbladder surgery. A low-fat, non-irritating diet ensures optimal health and can help you reach other wellness goals.

FAQs

Dos and don’ts after gallbladder removal?

You should avoid strenuous activity for two to four weeks after gallbladder surgery. However, you should walk each day to prevent blood clots and pneumonia.

How long does it take for your insides to heal after gallbladder surgery?

It can take your body about two weeks to heal after a laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Recovery from an open cholecystectomy takes six to eight weeks.

What is the downside of having gallbladder removal?

Gallbladder removal can lead to complications like bile leaking into the tummy. This condition may occur if one of the ducts carrying bile out of the liver becomes damaged.