Gallbladder: Problems & Healthy Diet
Diet for a healthy gallbladder
Maintaining a healthy diet and weight go a long way in keeping the gallbladder healthy. "You should eat a well-balanced diet with fruits, veggies, lean meats and fiber," advised Knowlton. According to New Health Guide, foods that are particularly good for the gallbladder are:
Fresh, fiber-rich fruits and vegetables: Some great ones are avocados, cranberries, berries, grapes, cucumbers and beets. Broccoli, bell peppers and oranges are high in fiber and vitamin C, which if lacking can contribute to gallstones. Pectin-rich fruits — such as apples, strawberries and citrus — can also help, according to RawPeople.com. Radishes are a terrific option because they increase bile flow, but those already suffering from gallbladder problems shouldn't eat too many of them.
Lean meat, fish and poultry: The least fatty cuts are loins or "rounds," according to New Health Guide. Any type of fish, pork, lamb and skinless chicken are also good choices.
Whole grains: These include oats, bran cereal and brown rice. Try breads and cereals that contain whole, various grains and high amounts of fiber.
Low-fat dairy: Pay attention to the fat content in any type of dairy food.
Caffeinated coffee and alcohol: Studies have actually shown that moderate amounts (typically two drinks per day) of alcohol or caffeine from coffee may reduce the risk of gallstones. Caffeine from sources other than coffee, such as tea and soda, has not been shown to have a beneficial effect.
Plenty of water: RawPeople.com advises this one, pointing out that hydration is essential for maintaining the proper amount of water in the bile.
Nuts: The jury is still out on nuts. According to Everyday Health, some studies have shown that eating peanuts or tree nuts such as almonds and walnuts can help prevent gallstones, but it is important not to eat too many because nuts are high in fat.
Keeping away from certain foods can help, too. "Avoid fatty, fried foods, and limit alcohol!" cautioned Knowlton. According to New Health Guide, some other foods to steer clear of are:
Sweeteners, sugar, and refined carbohydrates: This includes high-fructose corn syrup and refined sugars, like those found in cookies, soda and snack foods.
Frozen or canned fruits and vegetables: They may have additives that make it harder for the gallbladder to do its work.
White flour foods: This includes white bread, pasta and many desserts.
Processed snacks: Potato chips, cookies, pies — almost any packaged snack are bad for your body.
High-fat foods: Fried food, fatty cuts of meat, whole-milk dairy products and foods that are highly processed should be avoided.
Very low-calorie diets: This generally means eating less than 1,000 calories a day. These diets can increase gallstone formation.
Additional reporting by Alina Bradford, Live Science contributor.:
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