From the Guidelines
A diet rich in healthy fats, fiber, and fluids, with minimal saturated fats and processed foods, is the best approach for managing gallbladder sludge and stones. Limit total fat intake to 40-50 grams daily, focusing on healthy fats from sources like olive oil, avocados, and fatty fish while avoiding fried foods, fatty meats, full-fat dairy, and processed foods 1. Increase fiber consumption through fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, which helps regulate bile cholesterol levels. Stay well-hydrated with at least 8 glasses of water daily to maintain proper bile flow. Eat smaller, more frequent meals rather than large ones to reduce gallbladder contraction demands. Include foods with anti-inflammatory properties such as turmeric, ginger, and leafy greens. Maintain a healthy weight through gradual weight loss if needed, as rapid weight loss can actually increase stone formation.
Some key considerations for this diet include:
- Limiting saturated fatty acid intake, specifically red and processed meat, and commercially produced fructose consumption 1
- Following a Mediterranean-style diet, which has been shown to reduce the risk of and progression of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects 1
- Increasing consumption of omega-3 fatty acids, such as those found in olive oil, nuts, and seeds, which can help reduce inflammation and improve bile flow
- Avoiding high-oxalate foods, vitamin C supplements, and excessive sodium intake, which can increase the risk of stone formation 1
By following this dietary approach, individuals with gallbladder sludge and stones can help reduce their symptoms, prevent the formation of new stones, and improve their overall quality of life. The Mediterranean diet, in particular, has been shown to have numerous health benefits, including reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes, and is a good starting point for individuals looking to make dietary changes to manage their gallbladder health 1.
From the Research
Dietary Factors Influencing Gallbladder Sludge and Stones
- Dietary factors play a significant role in the development of gallbladder sludge and stones, with certain foods increasing or decreasing the risk 2, 3, 4.
- Foods that may increase the risk of gallbladder sludge and stones include:
- Cholesterol
- Saturated fat
- Trans fatty acids
- Refined sugar
- Legumes (possibly)
- Foods that may decrease the risk of gallbladder sludge and stones include:
- Polyunsaturated fat
- Monounsaturated fat
- Fiber
- Caffeine
- Nuts
- Coffee
- Moderate alcohol intake
Nutritional Approaches to Prevention and Treatment
- A vegetarian diet has been associated with a decreased risk of gallbladder sludge and stones 2.
- Identification and avoidance of allergenic foods may relieve symptoms of gallbladder disease, although it does not dissolve gallstones 2.
- Nutritional supplements that may help prevent gallbladder sludge and stones include:
- Vitamin C
- Soy lecithin
- Iron
- A mixture of plant terpenes (Rowachol) has been used with some success to dissolve radiolucent gallstones 2.
Medical Treatment Options
- Ursodeoxycholic acid (ursodiol) is a naturally occurring bile acid that can be used to dissolve radiolucent gallstones, with a success rate of 30-80% 5, 6.
- Other medical treatment options include:
- Chenodiol
- Methyl tert-butyl ether
- Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy
- Percutaneous cholecystostomy
- However, these treatments may have limitations and potential side effects, and stones may recur in some cases 5, 6.