What are the causes of gallstones?

The formation of gallstones is mainly related to genetics, living environment, metabolism and the influence of certain diseases. Understanding these causes can help us better prevent this common digestive system problem.

From a genetic point of view, gallstones have a certain family inheritance tendency. If someone in your immediate family has gallstones, your own risk of developing the disease may increase. Environmental factors such as eating habits are also important causes. A high-fat, high-cholesterol, and low-fiber diet can easily lead to an imbalance in bile components, thus forming stones. And an unhealthy lifestyle such as sedentary, obesity, and rapid weight loss can also increase cholesterol deposition and promote stone formation. Physiologically, the incidence rate in women is higher than that in men, which is related to estrogen levels, especially during pregnancy or long-term use of estrogen-containing contraceptives. People with chronic diseases such as diabetes and hyperlipidemia are prone to cholesterol oversaturation in bile due to metabolic abnormalities, and the probability of developing stones is higher than that of ordinary people. Specific pathological conditions, such as cholecystitis, biliary infection, or cirrhosis, can also change the flow and chemical properties of bile, inducing or aggravating gallstones. Long-term fasting or drinking too little water may lead to insufficient bile emptying, which is also an important cause of disease in some young people.

From a genetic point of view, gallstones have a certain family inheritance tendency. If someone in your immediate family has gallstones, your own risk of developing the disease may increase. Environmental factors such as eating habits are also important causes. A high-fat, high-cholesterol, and low-fiber diet can easily lead to an imbalance in bile components, thus forming stones. And an unhealthy lifestyle such as sedentary, obesity, and rapid weight loss can also increase cholesterol deposition and promote stone formation. Physiologically, the incidence rate in women is higher than that in men, which is related to estrogen levels, especially during pregnancy or long-term use of estrogen-containing contraceptives. People with chronic diseases such as diabetes and hyperlipidemia are prone to cholesterol oversaturation in bile due to metabolic abnormalities, and the probability of developing stones is higher than that of ordinary people. Specific pathological conditions, such as cholecystitis, biliary infection, or cirrhosis, can also change the flow and chemical properties of bile, inducing or aggravating gallstones. Long-term fasting or drinking too little water may lead to insufficient bile emptying, which is also an important cause of disease in some young people.

To reduce the risk of gallstones, it is particularly important to maintain a healthy diet. It is recommended to consume more dietary fiber, such as whole grains, fruits and vegetables, and reduce the intake of high-fat and high-cholesterol foods. Encourage moderate exercise, avoid sitting for long periods of time, and control weight within a reasonable range. For female friends, try to reduce unnecessary use of hormone drugs. Regular physical examinations can help detect gallbladder problems early, especially for people with a family history of gallstones or other high-risk factors. If you have symptoms such as abdominal pain and indigestion, you should seek medical attention in time to avoid worsening symptoms and complications.