Gallbladder Inflammation (Cholecystitis)

An inflammation of the gallbladder is usually a result from a low-grade chronic infection.

Probable Causes

• Bacteria that may have traveled from any point of the body such as the tonsils or even the appendix through the bloodstream to the gallbladder

• Presence of gallstone

Note: If inflammation is without infection, other factors influencing abnormal gallbladder functioning include:

a)     Obesity

b)      Pregnancy

c)      Constipation

d)     Constricting clothes

e)      Improper diet

f)       Digestive upsets

Probable Symptoms

• Pain radiating from the upper abdominal area (epigastric) to the right shoulder

• Impaired fat digestion (fat intolerance)

• Sense of fullness

• Urge to vomit

• Stomach distention with intake of gas-forming vegetables and strongly-flavored foods

• Low-grade fever

Helpful Dietary Management

• Eat a low fat diet and bland diet.

• Have small frequent meals.

Note: The gallbladder contracts to release bile when fat is present in the digestive system. This influences the intensity and incidence of pain and discomfort in cholecystitis.

Reference: Healing Wonders of Diet Effective Guide to Diet Therapy p.36-37 © 2003 Philippine Publishing House ISBN 971-581-013-6

Gallstone Formation (Cholelithiasis)

The chief component of most gallstones is cholesterol. A condition where there is formation of gallstones without infection is known as cholelithiasis. If infection is present in combination of gallstones, the condition is known as cholecystolithiasis. Choledocholithiasis results when the stone slips into the common bile duct producing obstruction and cramps.

Probable Causes

• Stones that have developed in a sluggish, diseased gallbladder

• Infection

• Poor eating habits

• Other predisposing factors such as:

a)      obesity

b)      multiparity

c)      diabetes mellitus

d)     chronic hemolytic disorders

e)      use of oral contraceptives

f)       estrogen in women

Probable Symptoms

• No symptoms may be experienced until the stones start to travel through the bile ducts. However, the pathways may be obstructed and pain (biliary colic) is experienced due to increased biliary pressure.

Helpful Dietary Management

• Eat a low fat diet and bland diet.

• Take adequate calories only.

Note: Excess carbohydrates, proteins and fats may contribute to increased production of cholesterol in the body.

Reference: Healing Wonders of Diet Effective Guide to Diet Therapy p.35 © 2003 Philippine Publishing House ISBN 971-581-013-6