What are the four causes of gallstones?

Causes of gallstones include genetic factors, poor eating habits, abnormal body metabolism, and long-term sitting and lack of exercise. These causes can lead to an imbalance of cholesterol, bile salts and phospholipids in bile, thus forming stones. According to different causes, improving diet, adjusting lifestyle, and treating underlying diseases can effectively prevent and control the occurrence of gallstones.

1) Genetic factors

Family history may increase the risk of gallstones. If a direct relative has gallstones, the probability of developing the disease may increase. This is related to genetic variations that affect cholesterol metabolism or bile secretion. For people with a family history of the disease, regular physical examinations are recommended, with particular attention to gallbladder ultrasound examinations.

2) Poor eating habits

A high-fat, high-cholesterol, and low-fiber diet is an important cause of gallstones. For example, a large intake of fried foods, animal fats, and foods high in sugar will increase the cholesterol in bile, which will eventually crystallize into stones. To avoid this problem, you should eat more fiber-rich foods, such as whole grains, vegetables, and fruits, while controlling the intake of fat and high-sugar foods.

3) Abnormal body metabolism

Metabolic disorders or endocrine abnormalities, such as obesity, diabetes, and hormonal changes during pregnancy, may affect the balance of bile components and increase the risk of gallstones. Losing weight too quickly may also lead to the formation of gallstones due to excessive cholesterol in bile. You should maintain healthy weight management, avoid extreme weight loss or overeating, and follow your doctor's advice to pay attention to your endocrine health during pregnancy.

4) Sitting for a long time and lack of exercise

Long-term sitting and lack of regular exercise may slow down the emptying frequency of the gallbladder, causing bile to stay for too long, causing cholesterol to precipitate and form stones. Moderate exercise can promote bile circulation and reduce the risk of gallstones. It is recommended to do at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, such as brisk walking, swimming or yoga, to maintain normal gallbladder function.

To prevent gallstones, you first need to adjust the above factors, such as paying attention to family history, maintaining a healthy diet, managing weight and increasing exercise. If related symptoms have already appeared, you should see a doctor as soon as possible and use treatments such as drug dissolution or surgical removal to fundamentally solve the problem. A reasonable lifestyle is an effective way to prevent and control gallstones.