4 minute read
Nutrition and digestion after gallbladder removal
WRITTEN BY DIANA ARUNDELL – THE AVOCA NATUROPATH AND NUTRITIONIST
The gallbladder is a small, pear–shaped organ located in the upper right side of the abdomen, which plays a vital role in the digestive system. Its main function is to store and release bile, a digestive fluid that helps break down fats in the food we consume. Bile helps break down fats into smaller particles that can be more easily absorbed by the body. Bile is also required for the absorption of fat–soluble vitamins, such as vitamins A, D, E, and K.
In some cases, the gallbladder may need to be removed (cholecystectomy) due to inflammation, gallstones, sludge, or more rarely, gallbladder cancer. According to Melbourne Gastro Surgery, there are approximately 50,000 cholecystectomies performed in Australia per year.
After the removal of the gallbladder, people may experience changes in their digestive system, particularly in how they digest dietary fats. They may experience more bloating, indigestion/ heartburn, flatulence and diarrhoea, especially in the early stages post–surgery. We can easily survive without a gallbladder, as it’s primarily the liver which produces bile, and the gall bladder is mostly functions as a storage pouch for it.
When the gallbladder is removed, bile produced by the liver is no longer stored in the gallbladder and it flows directly into the small intestine. This can cause digestive problems, particularly when consuming foods high in fat.
Maintaining a healthy diet is crucial after gallbladder removal to help the body adjust to the changes in digestion. Here are some tips to consider:
Gradually reintroduce fats: After surgery, it is best to start with a low–fat diet and gradually increase the intake of healthy fats over time. Good sources of healthy fats include avocados, nuts, seeds, and fatty fish such as salmon
Choose lean proteins: Focus on lean protein sources such as chicken, turkey, fish, and plant–based proteins like beans, lentils, and tofu. These proteins are easier to digest and less likely to cause digestive problems
Avoid high saturated fat foods : Fried and fatty foods are harder to digest, and without the gallbladder, the body may struggle to process them. Avoid foods high in saturated and trans fats, such as red meat, and processed foods. Full fat dairy products may aggravate some individuals, so start with smaller portions of these. Consider white cheese such as feta or ricotta rather than the fattier, processed, yellow cheeses
Eat small, frequent meals: Consuming smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day can help ease digestion and reduce symptoms such as bloating and discomfort
Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps keep the digestive system functioning properly and prevents constipation, which can exacerbate digestive symptoms
Chew food thoroughly: The more food is chewed, the more saliva is produced, which in turn stimulates digestive enzymes and secretions further down the digestive tract. Chewing food thoroughly also helps break it down into smaller particles, making it easier for the digestive
Digestive enzyme supplements can help support the body to break down fats and aid digestion: Ideally these supplements should be taken approximately 20mins before meals. This can be done for a couple of weeks post–surgery, then can be taken after meals for a couple of weeks, and then only taken when high fat meals or larger portions are consumed. Drinking lemon or apple cider vinegar in water can also support digestive secretions due to the bitter taste stimulating saliva
Fibre helps keep the digestive system functioning properly: By supporting healthy elimination and reducing re–absorption of toxins via sluggish digestion and a slower bowel transit time. High fibre diets may also help reduce the risk of gallstones. Good sources of fibre include fresh vegetables/fruit, whole grains, legumes and partially hydrolysed guar gum powders (PHGG)
Avoid individual trigger/ aggravating foods: Some foods may trigger digestive symptoms more than others. Keep a food diary and note which foods seem to cause problems
Other supplements that may support good bile salt production and digestive function include probiotics which can help promote a healthy gut microbiome and herbal medicine to support optimal liver function. These should always be prescribed by a health practitioner qualified in functional nutrition and herbal medicine.
For further information or to make an appointment please visit avocanaturopath.com.au
0410 465 900 naturopathdiana@gmail.com
Diana is a university qualified naturopath and nutritionist who has over 20 years clinical experience as well as 10 years teaching nutrition at Macquarie university. Her passion is helping people create healthier, happier lives, combining the best of traditional wisdom and modern science. For more information, please visit www.avocanaturopath.com.au
