How to Prevent Gallstones Naturally
Gallstones are small pebble-like deposits that can gradually form within the gallbladder. The process can take many years to occur. Gallstones are extremely common; however, the vast majority of gallstones cause no physical symptoms. Unfortunately, approximately 10 percent of gallstones will block either the cystic or common bile ducts causing abdominal pain, jaundice, nausea and fever. When this occurs it becomes necessary to surgically remove the inflamed gallbladder and any gallstones it contains. For many people gallstones are discovered incidentally on an abdominal ultrasound. Knowing that you have gallstones what foods should you avoid with gallstones? Can you prevent gallstones naturally with dietary changes?
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Instructions
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Avoid eating foods derived from animal products. Items such as red meats, butter and whole milk that contain saturated fats seem to promote gallstone formation as well as trigger gallbladder attacks.
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Skip fatty foods. Foods that are greasy or fried should be avoided for those with gallstones. These food items force the gallbladder to work harder. If you have documented gallstones it could cause one to suddenly obstruct your cystic duct.
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Consume monounsaturated fats such as canola and olive oils. Nuts are also an excellent dietary choice. These oils which have been touted as part of the Mediterranean diet have actually shown an ability to prevent gallstones.
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Eat cold water fish such as tuna, mackerel and salmon. Omega-3 fish oils can help the gallbladder to function more effectively by preventing gallstones.
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Avoid refined sugar and high glycemic carbohydrates. Potatoes, rice and many pastas and breads are converted by the body into sugar. High blood sugar levels are directly correlated with diabetes as well as gallstone formation.
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Drink a small amount of coffee every day. Doing so seems to reduce cholesterol levels within the gallbladder which helps to prevent gallstones.
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Eat plenty of vegetables and fruits. Not only are they loaded with vitamins and antioxidants medical studies have shown they can actually prevent gallstone formation.
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Bulk up your diet with water soluble fibers such as whole grains and cereals. Dietary fiber lowers cholesterol and triglyceride levels which can in turn prevent gallstones naturally.
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Tips & Warnings
Genetic factors can influence your risk for gallstones.
Certain medical problems need to be excluded even if your gallstones are not causing you to experience symptoms.
Being obese or rapidly losing weight are strongly associated with gallstones. Lose weight gradually and then maintain this healthy weight to prevent gallstones naturally.
