Safe Dietary Options For Gallbladder Pain Relief
Searching desperately for gallbladder pain relief often leads people to consider surgery, yet it is important to know that there are safe ways to relieve the pain with natural treatments that target the underlying problems and prevent gallstones from occurring or returning.
One of the first and most common symptoms of a gallbladder problem, is pain.
The most common cause of gallbladder-related pain is gallstones, which occur when cholesterol, along with the other substances found in bile, form stones.
As the stone moves from the gallbladder into the small intestine it may also get stuck in the biliary duct causing immense discomfort – also known as biliary colic or a gallbladder attack. This sensation usually begins as a dull ache under the right ribcage and can progress to a sharp pain radiating upward to the right shoulder blade.
Generally, those who are overweight or obese, face a higher risk of developing problems related to a gallbladder that isn’t functioning well. This is primarily because overweight people tend to produce higher levels of cholesterol in their liver. By maintaining a healthy weight, it is possible to reduce the chances of developing gallbladder problems that cause pain and misery.
Although obesity is a risk factor for developing gallstones, rapid weight loss can also cause problems. It is often surprising for people to learn that when weight is shed very quickly, electrolyte imbalances and other deficiencies may develop, increasing the odds for gallstone formation. As a result, those who follow low-calorie diets, or undergo weight loss surgery tend to be at a higher risk for these issues.
Following a healthy diet, which supports liver and gallbladder health, can also help to keep these problems at bay. Anti-inflammatory foods, in particular, are cited as being beneficial in reducing the risk of developing gallstones as well as providing gallbladder pain relief.
The following foods provide gallbladder support, minimize intestinal putrefaction and inflammation:
- High fiber foods, rich
- In vegetables
- Fruit
- Nuts/seeds
- Beans/legumes
These foods will also help ensure the gallbladder produces bile as it should and functions normally.
Staying away from the following is also advisable:
- Processed foods
- Food that contain high amounts of sugar
- Foods that contain artificial ingredients and inflammatory compounds.
Furthermore, certain foods such as beetroot, artichokes and dandelion greens can actually support digestive health by stimulating bile flow that breaks down fat. Easily digestible healthy fats such as fish oil, coconut oil and olive oil help the gallbladder contract regularly and prevent biliary sludge or stones.
Keeping active is another safe way to get gallbladder pain relief. Regular physical activity and exercise helps to boost digestive functions and as a result, offers protection against gallbladder related issues.
It is important for women to note that hormone replacement medications and some oral contraceptive medications may increase their risk of gallstone formation. This is due to estrogen and progesterone levels shifting the balance of cholesterol and bile salts, which triggers stone formation. Gallbladder pain relief is therefore an important consideration when undergoing any hormone treatment.
The great news for gallbladder pain sufferers is that there is safe, effective relief available.
