Healthy Gallbladder Diet Tips

Include Whole Grains

Individuals including whole grains in their diet can really prevent their gallbladder from becoming overwhelmed. Whole grains are a great source of insoluble fiber. Whole grains such as whole wheat pasta, quinoa, steel-cut oats, and brown rice are also low processed carbs that can help protect the gallbladder by reducing the secretion of insulin. When individuals take in too many refined starches or carbs, their body secretes more insulin, which, in turn, can increase the concentration of cholesterol. This has an impact on the gallbladder because the cholesterol in the bile can end up creating gallstones. Replacing processed carbs with whole grains is also beneficial, as they also have more fiber in them than refined carbs. Whole grains cause there to be less insulin released into the body, preventing the gallbladder from storing bile high in cholesterol.

Avoid Refined Carbohydrates

Patients are often advised to avoid refined carbohydrates to prevent gallstones and reduce the risk of complications from them. Refined carbohydrates include items such as white bread, white pasta, cakes, cookies, baked goods, candy, soda, and fruit juice. Consuming these types of carbohydrates can indirectly lead to gallbladder irritation and gallstones by raising levels of abdominal fat, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, and blood glucose. Increased LDL cholesterol raises the concentration of cholesterol in a patient's bile, and this contributes directly to gallstones. Patients who eat diets high in refined carbohydrates may have an insufficient intake of dietary fiber. Unlike complex carbohydrates, refined carbohydrates lack fiber, and studies indicate having sufficient dietary fiber intake could reduce a patient's risk for gallstones. Instead of refined carbohydrates, doctors advise patients to consume whole fruits, fresh vegetables, and whole grains such as brown rice and oatmeal. These foods can help patients reach the suggested twenty-eight to thirty-eight grams of daily dietary fiber intake for optimal gallbladder health.