Post-Gallbladder Surgery Diet: Foods to Avoid for Recovery

When gallstones accumulate in the gallbladder and cause pain, bloating, nausea and vomiting, surgery may be needed to remove the gallbladder. Dietary changes will most likely have to be made after surgery, but it serves mostly as a guideline. The "what not to eat" list can save a great deal of discomfort. Find what works and what doesn't.

Significance

• The gallbladder does not have any real vital functions and a person can get along quite well without one. Gallstones cause pain and problems and must be addressed. Often diet alone does not work, and removal is required.

Considerations

• A proper diet is one way to stop gallbladder pain before and after surgery. Recognizing what foods cause flare-ups, pain and discomfort and then avoiding them are the first steps to relief.

Misconceptions

• Many people believe that many foods are completely off limits after gall bladder surgery. A normal diet is slowly introduced, and most foods can be consumed on an as tolerated basis.

Warning

• Long-term dietary restrictions or changes are most often not required. Introducing foods gradually to a diet after removal and acknowledging those that cause discomfort are important to long-term success.

Benefits

• After gallbladder surgery, a low-fat diet is advised. Avoiding fats, trans fats, oils and fried and fatty foods is greatly suggested. This will be beneficial to a person's overall health and diet as well.

Prevention/Solution

• The list of foods to avoid or limit is lengthy. Tolerance is key. Offenders include: eggs, coffee, alcohol, beer, wine, onions, milk, beans, corn, grapefruit, pork, fowl, red meats, dairy, chocolate, ice cream, black tea, carbonated water, tap water, turnips, cabbage, cauliflower, colas, wheat, barley, rye, white flower and artificial sweeteners.