Prevention of Gallstones

Read about Prevention of Gallstones presented in simple easy to understand language

Type of Food that you intake or Diet plays a major role in the formation of gallstones. The following discussions are some observations on specific dietary factors

Role of Fats: As we know that fats have been associated with gallstone attacks--particularly saturated fats which are found in meats, butter, and other animal products, evidence suggests that is you reduce the intake of these of fatty items may reduce the formation of the gallstones. Some studies have found a lower risk for gallstones in people who consume foods containing monounsaturated fats (found in olive and canola oils) or omega-3 fatty acids (found in canola, flaxseed, and, particularly, fish oil). Fish oil may be of particular benefit in patients who have high triglyceride levels by improving the emptying actions of the gallbladder.

Fiber: High intake of fiber will lower risk for gallstones.

Nuts: Researchers suggest that people will be able to reduce their risk of gallstones by eating nuts such as peanuts, walnuts, almonds.

Vegetable Protein: Consumption of vegetable protein such as soybean products will help to prevent symptomatic gallstones.

Lecithin: As we know that Lecithin is a key component of bile. It contains choline and inositol--two compounds that are important in breaking of fat and cholesterol. Low levels of lecithin will precipitate in the formation of cholesterol gallstones. Animal studies have suggested that lecithin-rich soy and buckwheat protein may protect against gallstones. Lecithin are found in eggs, soybeans, liver, wheat germ, and peanuts.

Sugar: High-intake of sugar has been associated with an increased risk for gallstones. Diets that are high in carbohydrates (pasta, bread) can also increase risk. Carbohydrates are converted to sugar in the body.

Alcohol: studies have reported that taking small amount of alcohol will lower the risk of gallstones. Moderate intake (defined as one or two drinks a day) also appears to have heart protective benefits. It should be noted, however, that even moderate intake increases the risk for breast cancer in women. Pregnant women, people who can't drink moderately, and people with liver disease should not drink at all.

Vitamin C: Ascorbic acid or vitamin C will help to break cholesterol down in bile. Vitamin C deficiencies have been associated with a higher risk for gallstones.

Coffee: Men who drink two or more cups of regular coffee daily (either instant, filtered, or espresso) have a 40% lower risk of developing gallbladder disease over ten years than men who did not drink coffee regularly. Those who drank more than four cups had the lowest risk.

Exercise: Regular Exercise may reduce the risk of gallstones and gallbladder disease, even in people who are overweight. Studies are reporting a lower risk for gallstones in both men and women who exercise. Exercise helps to reduce the cholesterol levels in the biliary tract, which in turn prevent the formation of gallstones.