What are the four causes of gallstones?

The causes of gallstones can be divided into four aspects: genetic factors, eating habits, metabolic disorders and related diseases, and lifestyle. Gallstones are a common digestive system disease. If not prevented and treated in time, they may cause serious complications such as cholecystitis and bile duct obstruction, which requires attention.

1) Genetic factors

People with a family history of gallstones may have a higher risk of developing the disease because genetic genes can affect the balance of bile metabolism. For example, the metabolic characteristics of cholesterol in the body may be related to genetics, causing excessive cholesterol to accumulate in bile and form stones. If there is a family history of the disease, it is recommended to undergo regular ultrasound examinations and pay attention to risk management in life.

2) Eating habits

An unhealthy diet is an important external factor that induces gallstones. A high-fat, high-cholesterol, low-fiber diet will increase the cholesterol content in bile, making it more likely to crystallize. People who often eat fried foods and cream desserts are at greater risk. It is recommended to increase the intake of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in the diet, control the proportion of high-fat and high-sugar foods, and maintain adequate water intake to promote balanced bile metabolism.

3) Metabolic disorders and related diseases

Certain metabolic diseases such as obesity, type II diabetes, and hyperlipidemia can change the composition of bile and increase the cholesterol ratio. Long-term hunger or rapid weight loss can cause bile to be stored in the gallbladder for a long time, inducing the formation of gallstones. If you are a high-risk individual for metabolic disorders, you should manage your weight reasonably and treat the underlying disease under the guidance of a doctor. For those who need to lose weight, it is recommended to take a gradual approach and avoid rapid weight loss.

4) Lifestyle

A sedentary lifestyle slows down the emptying function of the gallbladder, causing bile to accumulate and thus causing gallstones. Ageing, middle-aged women, especially those after childbearing age, are more susceptible to this disease, which is related to related hormone changes. It is recommended to do regular moderate-intensity exercise, such as a 30-minute walk, yoga or swimming every day, and pay attention to a regular work and rest schedule to avoid excessive fatigue.

The formation of gallstones is often the result of multiple factors, so it is necessary to prevent and improve from multiple aspects such as diet, exercise, and health checks. Patients suspected of having gallstones or existing symptoms should seek medical attention in a timely manner and have a clear diagnosis through B-ultrasound examination. If necessary, drug dissolution (such as oral ursodeoxycholic acid) and minimally invasive surgery (such as laparoscopic cholecystectomy) can be selected to treat cases with severe symptoms. Through scientific intervention and the development of healthy habits, the occurrence and development of gallstones can be effectively reduced and the long-term health of the digestive system can be protected.