Gallstones Diet

Gallstones are also known as cholelithiasis. Gallstones are the solid particles that are formed from the bile in the gallbladder. 80% of the stones formed are cholesterol stones.

They may be also the pigment stones which are formed when there is excess bilirubin in the bile. Even mixed stones (cholesterol + bilirubin is in excess forming stones) are seen in certain cases.

Principle of diet:

A low calorie, normal protein, complex carbohydrates, low fat, high fiber, and supplements of fat-soluble vitamins (vitamins-A, D, E, K) should be provided.

• A high diet should be encouraged.
• As it is a low-fat diet fat soluble vitamins should be supplemented.
• High protein intake increases bilary cholesterol concentration. Hence normal protein should be given. High biological value proteins should be provided.
• Increased intake of simple sugars in drinks and sweets is associated with gallstones forma
• tion. Hence complex carbohydrates should be provided.

Foods to be included for Gallstones diet:

Cereals in soft form, cooked rice, chapathi, bread, idli, milk pudding, milkshakes, curds, cooked or pureed vegetables, kichidi, porridges, pulses, beans, lean meat, fruits, fruit juices, fish and chicken, soft cooked egg white can be given.

Foods to be avoided for Gallstones diet:

Fried foods, butter, ghee, egg yolk, buffalo milk (as it contains more fat), baked foods, ice creams, fast foods, roots and tubers, fruits like banana and chiku(as they are rich sources of carbohydrates).

Sample diet for gallstones:

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