Is Acid Reflux a Symptom of Gallbladder Disease?

It is estimated that half a million gallbladders are removed each year and 20 million people suffer from pain caused by gallstones.

Symptoms

Gallstones and other gallbladder problems can cause severe pain in the upper right abdomen, sometimes accompanied by nausea and vomiting, indigestion, pressure under the ribs, gas, bitter taste, cold sweats, itchy back, headaches, eye spots, cataracts, chest pain, ankle swelling, abdominal bloating or discomfort and intolerance to fatty foods and some vegetables.

Risk Factors

Gallbladder problems may be the result of excessive consumption of white sugar, white flour, calories, saturated fats, red meats, fatty foods, coffee, and insufficient fiber. Gallbladder disease is common with diabetes, obesity, inactivity, constipation and infections.

Considerations

Oral contraceptives increase cholesterol in the bile and decrease vitamin E, resulting in an increased risk of gallbladder disease.

Prevention

Gallbladder problems are less common in people who exercise regularly, drink plenty of water, eat a diet rich in whole grains, fruit and vegetable fiber foods and don't eat within four hours of bedtime.

Expert Insight

According to Joseph Marion, author of "Anti-Aging Manual: The Encyclopedia of Natural Health," gallstones can be alleviated with pectin fiber, raspberry leaf tea, apple, beet, radish and carrot juices.

References

• Anti-Aging Manual: The Encyclopedia of Natural Health; Joseph B. Marion; 2005.