Causes of Gallstones

The formation of gallstones is mainly related to the imbalance of the chemical composition of bile in the gallbladder. When the cholesterol concentration in the bile is too high, or the bile salt and phospholipid concentrations are too low, it may lead to the formation of cholesterol crystals and eventually form gallstones.

Gallstones are a relatively common digestive system disease, usually occurring in middle-aged and elderly people. The gallbladder is an organ that stores and concentrates bile. The main function of bile is to help digest and absorb fat. Cholesterol, bile salts, phospholipids and other substances in it must be kept in a certain proportion to form a stable liquid state. Under certain conditions, this balance is broken, and cholesterol may begin to precipitate and form crystals, which then evolve into gallstones.

Lifestyle and eating habits are closely related to the formation of gallstones. An increased intake of high-fat, high-cholesterol foods will increase the cholesterol content in bile. Prolonged fasting, rapid weight loss or malnutrition can cause the gallbladder to not contract properly and bile to accumulate, which may promote the formation of gallstones. Interestingly, fluctuations in progesterone levels can also affect the balance of bile components, making women more susceptible to gallstones during pregnancy or when using contraceptives containing estrogen.

To prevent the development of gallstones, it is recommended to maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle. Eating enough fiber and increasing your intake of fresh fruits and vegetables can help lower cholesterol levels. Eating meals regularly and avoiding long periods of fasting can help maintain the normal function of the gallbladder. Moderate exercise is not only good for cardiovascular health, but can also help control weight and reduce the risk of gallstones. If you have already developed biliary colic or suspected gallstones, it is recommended to see a doctor for a detailed examination and evaluation.