What causes gallstones?

The formation of gallstones is mostly caused by an imbalance in bile composition, abnormal gallbladder motility and infection. When the ratio of cholesterol, bile salts and phospholipids in bile is no longer balanced, cholesterol is easily precipitated and gradually forms stones. Failure of the gallbladder to contract and empty normally and bacterial infection may also lead to the formation of stones.

Gallstones are usually composed of three types: cholesterol stones, pigment stones and mixed stones. Cholesterol stones are the most common, and their formation is related to excessive cholesterol secretion and insufficient bile salt secretion; pigment stones are closely related to increased red blood cell destruction and infection, and their main component is calcium salt.

There are many factors that affect the formation of gallstones, such as genetics, changes in eating habits, and certain diseases. A high-fat diet may increase cholesterol concentrations, while long-term fasting can lead to cholestasis. In addition, people with obesity, diabetes, and cirrhosis are more likely to develop stones.

In order to prevent or relieve the trouble of gallstones, optimizing diet structure and maintaining moderate exercise are good choices. Increasing dietary fiber and reducing the intake of high-cholesterol foods can help balance the bile composition, thereby reducing the risk of stone formation. If you have related symptoms or discomfort, you need to seek professional medical advice.