What can't I eat if I have gallstones?

Patients with gallstones should avoid high-fat, high-cholesterol and irritating foods, as these foods stimulate bile secretion, thereby aggravating symptoms and even causing biliary colic. A proper diet can alleviate the condition and reduce the risk of complications.

High-fat foods are the main taboo, because they will cause the gallbladder to contract strongly, which may cause gallstones to block the bile duct. For example, fried foods, fatty meats, cream, butter, etc. should be completely avoided. High-cholesterol foods are also taboo. The production of bile acid requires cholesterol, and excessive cholesterol will further aggravate the stone condition. Common high-cholesterol foods include animal offal, egg yolks, seafood such as crab roe, etc. Spicy, sour or raw and cold foods such as peppers, pickled foods, and frozen drinks can strongly irritate the gallbladder and cause severe pain or discomfort. Alcoholic beverages are also recommended to be avoided because they may interfere with bile metabolism and worsen the bile duct environment.

In order to relieve the discomfort of gallstones, patients with gallstones should give priority to a low-fat, high-fiber diet, such as boiled vegetables, whole grains (such as oats, brown rice), and bean products (such as tofu and soy milk); moderate amounts of high-quality protein such as chicken breast and fish (such as salmon); supplementation with fruits rich in vitamins C and E such as oranges and kiwis can also significantly help prevent cholesterol coagulation. The amount of each meal should be even, and overeating should be avoided to reduce the burden on the gallbladder. At the same time, maintain a daily intake of sufficient water to dilute the bile and reduce the possibility of stone formation. Even if it does not have a therapeutic effect on gallstones that have already formed, a good diet can greatly reduce the number of symptom attacks.

After adjusting the diet, if you still frequently experience symptoms such as biliary colic and jaundice, be sure to seek medical attention in time and listen to the advice of a gastroenterologist. Humanistic care lies in the fact that a scientific diet is a form of protection and self-help for patients with gallstones, but if complications worsen, cholecystectomy may be the best way. Don't be afraid of pain, take reasonable care, pay attention to every change in your body, and actively cooperate with treatment to gain health.