A low-fat high-fiber diet that includes foods low in cholesterol and saturated fats is recommended after gallbladder surgery. This is because your body will no longer be able to store bile, which is used in the digestion of cholesterol and other fats. You should strive to maintain this diet throughout your life to avoid abdominal pain, nausea and other health complications during the digestion of food. Exercising regularly is also recommended to help you control cholesterol levels.
Gallbladder and Gallstones
Located under the liver, your gallbladder is a small organ used to store bile. Bile helps in the digestion of food. When bile contains high levels of cholesterol, gall stones can form. These stones can grow over the years and become very painful. Gallstones can block the opening of the gallbladder, which prohibits bile from entering. Bile usually ends up in the stomach and can cause excess gas, bloating, pain in the stomach and abdominal area, and jaundice. Remove of the gallbladder may be the only way to stop additional gallstones from forming.
After gallbladder surgery, your body will not be able to store as much bile. This means there will be less bile in your body to help digest cholesterol and other fats. Cut back on fatty foods, fried foods, foods high in sugar and preservatives, and foods high in starch. Eating these foods may lead to abdominal pain, diarrhea, bloating and nausea.
Avoid High-Cholesterol Foods
Foods high in cholesterol should be avoided after gallbladder surgery. These foods include egg yolks, dairy products, shellfish, organ meats and processed foods (all ingredients are not always listed).
Remove egg yolks before cooking or use an egg substitute that does not contain the yolk. Limit dairy product consumption as much as possible. Soy milk and other soy products are available to maintain appropriate calcium intake. Vegetables, including spinach, kale and collared greens, have high levels of calcium.
Review the ingredients of processed foods such as cheese, meat products, cookies and other desserts before buying them.
Avoid Foods High in Saturated Fats
Foods high in saturated fats should also be avoided after gallbladder surgery. These include dairy products such as whole milk and heavy cream, fatty cuts of meat, egg yolks, processed grains (cookies, pastries), foods cooked in lard or vegetable oil, processed meats, bacon, and butter.
A low-fat high-fiber diet is recommended to ensure proper digestion of food. Substitute high-fat foods with low-fat alternatives such as chicken (skin removed), lean meats such as pork, fish, low-fat dairy products, and whole grain pasta and breads. Fresh fruits and vegetables help control cholesterol levels and are recommended for everyday consumption.
