
While planning a diet after a surgery for gallstones, care should be taken to keep the fat and carb amounts in moderation. Main food items should include those containing high protein with low percentage of carbohydrates and fats.
After a gallbladder surgery or cholecystectomy, the body can no longer store bile juice till meal time. Instead, it is released from the liver to the intestine immediately after secretion. Thus, at the time of food digestion, there is no sufficient bile for breaking down fats. As a consequence, indigestion occurs, resulting in the stomach bloating, and diarrhea. This is when a proper diet becomes a necessity.
In addition to reducing the postoperative digestion problems, a well-planned diet is crucial to avoid recurrent formation of stones. Hence, the recommended diet should be such that it supports optimal functioning of the liver and digestive organs, to minimize stone formation.
List of Foods to be Included
In this diet, low cholesterol foods and foods that are easy to digest without causing pressure in the gastrointestinal tract are included. Also, there are certain food items that neutralize the bile juice, thereby minimizing the risk of stone disposition. Say for instance, vinegar aids in digesting the fatty acids present in bile. The same effect is shown by citrus fruits.
- Low fat milk
- Yogurt
- Cottage cheese
- Brown rice
- Whole grains
- Whole grained bread
- Whole grained crackers
- Peanut butter
- Freshwater fish
- Eggs
- Low fat poultry items
- Artichoke
- Tomato
- Garlic and onion
- Beets
- Carrots
- Cucumber
- Sweet potato
- Vinegar
- Lemon juice
- Flaxseed oil
- Olive oil
- Hemp seed oil
- Berries
- Pear
- Avocado
- Apple
- Grape
- Ginger
- Turmeric
List of Foods to be Avoided
There are certain food items that should be eliminated from the diet after surgery. Consuming large amount of foods rich in carbohydrates and fats overload the digestive system. Also, refrain from any kind of food item that contributes to gallstone formation.
- Corn
- Oranges
- Grapefruit
- Radishes
- Cauliflower
- Cabbage
- Turnip
- Red milk
- Pork
- Spicy foods
- Greasy foods
- Fried foods
- Fast foods
- Carbonated drinks
- Margarine
- High fat dairy products
- Fatty poultry items
- Chocolate
- Ice cream
- Caffeinated drinks
- Alcoholic beverages
- Some fruit juices
In a nutshell, the diet need not be free of fats and carbohydrates. They are essential for overall functioning of the body processes. Hence, the point is to opt for healthy food items containing these nutrients, and keep the serving amounts moderate. To help solve digestive problems, have lots of liquid foods and fiber-rich foods. If available, consume organic, fresh fruits and vegetables in adequate amounts. Also, consume smaller meals at least 6 times a day, instead of having 3 large meals. While cooking food, limit the use of oil to 2 – 3 teaspoons. Also, try substituting regular salad dressings with plain olive oil and vinegar.
Disclaimer: This HealthHearty article is for informative purposes only. Consult your physician/nutritionist for case-specific advice.