Who is prone to gallstones?

The formation of gallstones is closely related to genetic, environmental, physiological and disease factors, which makes certain groups more susceptible to this disease. High-risk groups include those with a family history, those who eat a high-fat diet, obese people, women and the elderly, because their lifestyle or physical condition increases the chance of cholesterol crystal deposition and accumulation.

Genetic factors are the basis of the risk of gallstones, especially when there is a history of gallstones in the first-degree relatives, the risk of the disease will increase significantly. This is because genes may affect the composition of bile, leading to abnormal cholesterol metabolism. Environmental factors in life such as high-fat diet, sedentary lifestyle and long-term irregular diet can also lead to increased cholesterol content in bile, increasing the possibility of stone formation. Women are also at high risk because of the relationship between estrogen, which makes bile more likely to accumulate. Women during pregnancy are also prone to gallstones due to weakened gallbladder function due to hormonal changes. People who are obese or lose weight too quickly are also at high risk because of abnormal cholesterol metabolism or too fast bile concentration. Even if the gallbladder of the elderly does not have disease, it is weakened due to aging, bile flow is slow, and gallstones are easy to form. Certain chronic diseases such as diabetes, cirrhosis or drug side effects (such as long-term use of birth control pills) may also be the cause of gallstones.

To reduce the risk of gallstones, high-risk groups are advised to maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle. Reducing the intake of high-fat, high-cholesterol foods, choosing a fiber-rich diet and ensuring adequate daily water intake can help dilute bile and reduce the possibility of gallstone formation. For obese people, rapid weight loss should be avoided, and a gradual weight loss method should be used instead. Regular exercise 3-5 times a week, more than 30 minutes each time, can help improve gallbladder function. If you are a high-risk group or already have symptoms of biliary colic, seek medical attention as soon as possible, such as an ultrasound to check whether there are already stones in the gallbladder. For the control of gallstone formation, asymptomatic small stones can be treated with medication, such as oral eucholic acid dissolution; those with more severe symptoms can choose minimally invasive laparoscopic cholecystectomy or endoscopic less traumatic stone removal to avoid more serious complications.

A healthy lifestyle starts with prevention. Even if you know you are at higher risk, you don't need to be overly nervous. As long as you control your weight, manage your diet, have a regular schedule, and pay attention to your body's signals, gallstones can be completely avoided or controlled. Sticking to your health will bring you and your family a more stable and happy life.