Post Gallbladder Removal Diet

The gallbladder is an important organ in the human body and not many are aware about its functions and importance. It is a pear shaped organ and is located below the liver. Its functions include collecting the bile pigment formed by the liver, storing it in between meals and releasing it into the small intestines after meal consumption. The bile that is released into the intestines then aids the process of digestion of fat and its transfer from the intestines to the body.

Gallbladder Removal Surgery

Gallbladder removal surgery is mainly conducted as a treatment option for disorders related to the organ, like gallbladder disease, gallstones, gallbladder cancer, biliary dyskinisia, porcelain gallbladder, etc. The most common among these gallbladder related disorders is gallstones. When gallstones are not cured with the prescribed drugs and medications, there is a certain amount of risk involved which may include the development of gallbladder cancer and gallbladder attacks. The gallbladder removal surgery, also known as cholecystectomy, is conducted to prevent these health risks and also to improve the quality of life for those suffering from gallbladder related disorders. The surgery may also be conducted using a method called laproscopy.

Post Gallbladder Removal Diet

Diet is the most important factor that needs to be considered and taken care of post gallbladder removal surgery. If you have undergone a gallbladder removal surgery just recently, then you must plan out a gallbladder removal diet in order to speed up your recovery and to get back to a healthy and normal life. Since the gallbladder has been removed, there obviously will be some dietary restrictions so that the digestive system gets used to the absence of the gallbladder functions. Once the gallbladder has been removed, it will be difficult for the body to emulsify and dissolve fats for a while. Keeping this in mind, a planned post gallbladder removal diet, that is fat free or a low fat diet and a high fiber diet, should be followed. The diet should be focused on assisting the liver, minimizing the workload of the system and restoring the digestive health.

What to Eat

Your post gallbladder surgery diet should consist of the following.

Oil: Unprocessed, healthy vegetable oils like flax seed oil, olive oil and hemp seed oil should be consumed. These are low in cholesterol and rich in fatty acids like omega 6 and omega 3. These should not be used as cooking oils but can be consumed as salad dressings or as supplements.

Vegetables: Tomatoes, celery, carrots, beetroot, green beans, sweet potatoes, avocado, shallots, cucumber, okra, garlic and onions are all to be included in gallbladder removal diet. Vegetable juice should also be included.

Fruits: Lemon, grapes, apples and berries. Grape and apple juice will be very beneficial.

Dairy Products: These can be included after a month post surgery. Skimmed milk and yogurt can be added to the diet.

Poultry and Fish: Grilled chicken and skinned fish can be made a part of gallbladder removal diet.

Water should be essentially included, particularly boiled or filtered water.

What Not to Eat

Diet after gallbladder removal should not consist of foods such as eggs, pork, oranges, margarine, fried food, hydrogenated oils, red meat, corn, nuts, milk, coffee, tea, artificial sweeteners, preservatives, chocolates and ice creams, radish, cauliflower, cabbage, alcoholic drinks, carbonated water and beverages, oats, barley, wheat, rye, legumes, refined and canned foods.

Also remember to have short light meals, do not overeat, eat at equal intervals and consume a lot of water and liquids. Do not try to lose weight, exercise excessively or exert yourself. Do not skip meals and limit the amount of fat consumption; do not completely stop consuming it. Gradually increase the amount of fat in your diet and get enough rest and sleep. Most importantly, follow and inculcate healthy lifestyle habits and be positive about your recovery.