Gallstones. It is estimated that ~25 million Americans have them, although many will not have symptoms for years. The gallbladder stores and releases bile into the intestinal tract- and bile helps you digest fat. Gallstones can form if the bile becomes too concentrated in cholesterol – it gets super-saturated.
Risk Factors for developing gallstones:
- routinely skipping meals
- carrying weight in the mid-section
- weight loss and regain cycling (on a diet, off a diet, on a diet, off a diet…..)
Symptoms of gallstones:
- discomfort after eating
- pain in right upper abdomen
- fever and chills
- nausea and vomiting
What might offer protection from developing gallstones? Having food sources of omega-3 fatty acids (nuts, fish, olive and canola oils), eating LOTS of fruits and vegetables, and selecting whole-grains rather than refined carbs and sugars.
Friday, August 24
The safe bet for prevention of gallstones is to have a healthy weight, choose healthy foods, and regular physical activity. Nothing unusual or heroic is needed to keep the gallbladder safe and sound.
