How to eat for elderly people with gallstones

Elderly people with gallstones should follow a low-fat diet and avoid high-cholesterol, high-sugar and irritating foods. At the same time, they should appropriately increase the intake of fiber-rich foods to reduce the burden on the gallbladder and reduce the risk of further expansion of the stones.

Gallstones are formed by the deposition of cholesterol, bilirubin or calcium salts in bile, and improper eating habits are one of the causes. Improper dietary structure may stimulate bile secretion disorders, leading to the formation or enlargement of stones. In order to reduce the risk of gallbladder inflammation and pain, the elderly need to minimize fat intake, such as animal offal, fried foods, fatty meat, etc. At the same time, high-cholesterol foods, such as egg yolks and seafood (such as crab roe and shellfish), are also important factors that induce gallstones to worsen and should be avoided. Excessive sugar intake may also aggravate bile metabolism disorders, and sweets and beverages should be controlled in moderation. Spicy and irritating foods, such as peppers, coffee, and strong tea, should also be avoided as much as possible to avoid stimulating gallbladder contraction and exacerbating pain.

Adding foods rich in dietary fiber to the diet, such as whole grains (oats, millet), dark green vegetables (spinach, celery), and fruits (apples, grapefruit), can help promote bile excretion and maintain intestinal health, which is helpful in preventing and relieving gallstone symptoms. In addition, you can also choose light high-protein foods, such as lean meat, fish, tofu, and low-fat dairy products, to ensure nutritional intake without increasing the burden on the gallbladder. Avoid eating too many meals a day, and adjust to eating small and frequent meals to reduce the time bile stays in the gallbladder, which can effectively reduce the chance of stone formation.

The elderly should pay attention to regular diet and avoid overeating. Drinking more water helps dilute bile, and it is recommended to drink 1500-2000 ml of water every day. When formulating a diet plan, you can consult a nutritionist or doctor to adjust the recipe according to your individual health status. If the symptoms worsen or the pain cannot be relieved, it is recommended to seek professional treatment as soon as possible to avoid delaying the disease. While maintaining a healthy diet, maintaining a positive attitude and good living habits will help improve the quality of life and help them safely through this health challenge.