• Gallstones are solid, hardened materials that form and collect in the gallbladder
• On early detection, gallstones can be flushed out without any medicines through dietary changes 
• A low-fat, nutritional diet can help in alleviating gallstone symptoms

Gallstones are small, hard crystals that form inside the gallbladder. What causes gallbladder stones is high-levels of cholesterol in bile. Bile is a fluid used in digestion. It is produced by the liver and gets stored in the gallbladder. Bile fluid promotes digestion by breaking down fluids and nutrients. 

Gallstone symptoms vary from one person to another. Some people do not experience any symptoms at all while others experience sudden and sharp abdominal pain, intensifying pain in your back and shoulder as well as nausea and vomiting. 

A healthy gallbladder diet can help in relieving symptoms of the disease.

There is no specific diet that can treat gallstones. However, certain foods can help in relieving symptoms and maintain the health of your gallbladder. 

Food for gallbladder stone should include:

Plenty of fruits and vegetables – You should eat at least five portions of colourful fruits and vegetables each day. Fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants and soluble fibre and are low in calories. 

Starchy carbohydrates – Bread, rice, cereals and potatoes are some food items you can eat to maintain the health of your gallbladder.

Low-fat dairy products – You should aim to consume 2-3 portions of dairy products such as milk and yoghurt.

High-fibre foods –  Foods rich in fibre support your digestive health by enhancing the movement of food as well as preventing the production of secondary bile fluids. Furthermore, fibre helps in reducing cholesterol levels. 

Healthy fats – Unsaturated, healthy fats like omega-3 fatty acids help protect the gallbladder against the development of stones. Fish, seeds and walnuts are good sources of healthy fats.

Coffee – Coffee is known to have substances that balance chemicals and promote the health of your gallbladder. However, you should ensure to consume it moderately as excessive caffeine can cause dehydration.

Calcium – Calcium is an essential nutrient to reduce your risk of gallbladder disease. You can include dark leafy green vegetables, low-fat dairy foods and orange juice to your diet to boost your calcium intake.

There are certain foods that can trigger the development of gallstones. If you are at an increased risk of gallbladder disease, you should avoid the intake of such trigger foods

Gallbladder foods to avoid include:

• Refined carbohydrates such as added sugar, white flour, refined grains 
• Unhealthful fats like processed meats, fried foods, full-fat dairy
• Foods and drinks high in sugar
• Oxalate containing foods such as nuts, black tea, soya
• Highly salted foods

Besides a healthful diet, you can improve your overall gallbladder health by living a healthy lifestyle. 

• Maintain a healthy body weight 
• Lose weight if obese or overweight
• Avoid consuming trigger foods
• Avoid smoking 
• Drink plenty of fluids, especially water