"Do I need to change my diet after gallbladder removal?" most people wonder. After removing your gallbladder, you must carefully monitor your diet for a few days, says a surgical gastroenterologist in Kolkata.
When the gallbladder has a problem, such as gallstones, the doctor may recommend gallbladder removal surgery, also known as cholecystectomy. Most people do not have digestive issues after surgery, but if you do, you may need to avoid certain foods.
Gallbladder and Digestion
The gallbladder is a pouch-like organ located beneath the liver.
The gallbladder's function is to store, concentrate, and secrete the digestive fluid (bile) produced by the liver. Bile aids the digestion of fatty foods. However, an imbalance in bile concentration causes gallstone formation, which can be caused by eating high cholesterol or fatty foods. Gallstones can vary in size and number.
Gallstones do not dissolve on their own; they must be removed surgically. The gallbladder is removed in most cases of gallstones. When the gallbladder is extracted, the liver continues to produce bile for normal digestion. However, bile flows directly to the small intestine instead of being stored in the gallbladder. As a result, your body requires some time to adjust to the new normal after the gallbladder is removed, says the laparoscopic gallbladder surgeon in Kolkata.
Food to Avoid After Gallstone Removal Surgery
Doctors recommend avoiding fatty, processed, high cholesterol and sugary foods in general after undergoing gallbladder removal surgery. These foods can cause a lot of pain, bloating, and diarrhea. Here's a list of foods to stay away from after gallbladder removal.
Meats high in fat
After gallbladder removal surgery, processed or high-fat meat may seriously threaten your digestive system. Among these meats are:
• Beef
• Pork
• Bacon
• Sausage
• High-fat red meat
Dairy products
Without the gallbladder, dairy products can be difficult to digest, says the best gallstone surgeon in Kolkata. You should limit or avoid consuming:
• Milk
• Yogurt (full-fat)
• Full-fat cheese
• Butter
• Whipped cream
Processed food
Processed foods contain a lot of extra fat and sugar, which makes them last longer but is difficult to digest. So avoid the following:
• Cakes
• Cookies
• Sugary cereals
• Processed bread
• Food cooked in hydrogenated oils or vegetable oil
Caffeine and alcohol
Caffeine contains a lot of acids, which can cause your stomach to become more acidic and drain faster, says the surgical gastroenterologist in Kolkata. This can cause stomach pain and discomfort following gallstone surgery. Limit or avoid the following caffeinated foods and beverages:
• Tea
• Coffee
• Soda
• Energy Drinks
• Chocolate
• Coffee-flavored energy bars or desserts
Conclusion
According to the surgical gastroenterologist in Kolkata, although some food-related symptoms are normal after surgery, you should contact your doctor if you experience any of the following:
• Abdominal pain, particularly if it worsens
• Vomiting and nausea
• Absence of bowel movements for more than three days following surgery
• Prolonged diarrhea lasting more than three days following surgery
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