The main causes of gallstone formation

Gallstones form mainly due to an imbalance in the bile, which can cause cholesterol, bile salts or other substances to crystallize and gradually aggregate to form stones. This imbalance can be caused by diet, genetic factors or other health conditions.

Gallstones are hardened, crystalline deposits in the gallbladder or bile duct system that are often caused by excess cholesterol or insufficient bile salts. The gallbladder's main function is to store and concentrate bile, which helps digest fats. If the gallbladder cannot empty effectively, components of the bile may precipitate and crystallize into stones. Factors that influence the formation of gallstones include obesity, dietary habits, a high-fat diet, and certain genetic factors. Rapid weight loss or certain medical conditions may also increase the risk of stones.

Looking deeper, when there is too much cholesterol in the gallbladder, the cholesterol that exceeds the solubility capacity will form crystals, which is the cause of cholesterol stones. Excessive bilirubin will form pigment stones, which are more common in patients with certain blood diseases or liver diseases. People with cirrhosis, hemorrhoids and diabetes are often told to be vigilant. Women, especially pregnant women, may increase the risk of gallstones due to hormonal changes.

A balanced diet is key to preventing gallstones. Maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding rapid weight loss, and ensuring dietary fiber intake can help keep bile components balanced. Drinking plenty of water can promote bile flow and reduce the chance of stone formation. If you experience symptoms such as persistent abdominal pain, bloating, or jaundice, you should consult a professional medical staff for further examination. Although lifestyle changes can reduce the risk of gallstones, treatment and intervention are still necessary in some cases.