Gallbladder Diet: Tips for Eating After Removal

If you’ve had your gallbladder removed, and you’re still experiencing diarrhea, gas or bloating, you may want to consider changing to a gallbladder diet.

6 Tips For Eating After a Gallbladder Removal

1. Limit fats. That means fried, greasy and fatty foods, including gravies. Look for low-fat alternatives that have 3 grams of fat or less per serving. It is generally advised that you follow this low-fat diet for up to 3 months after surgery before trying to add them back into your diet.
2. Gradually add fiber. Vegetables, fruits and grains are good for digestion, but increasing fiber too quickly can cause cramping.
3. Choose lean meats such as chicken and fish. Limit red meats, pork, bacon and processed meats. You may even consider a vegetarian or vegan diet.
4. Limit or eliminate dairy products. Several milk alternatives such as soy, almond and oat milk are now available. If cutting dairy all together is difficult, try options like low-fat cheeses and non-fat yogurts.
5. Eat smaller, more frequent meals.
6. Avoid or limit caffeine, alcohol and very sweet foods like sugary desserts.

Digestion is individualized, you will have to discover your level of tolerance to certain foods. Some require drastic changes while others get relief with smaller changes. Consider keeping a food journal to help connect what you eat with how you feel. If you are still having problems despite major changes to your diet, talk to your provider.

For more guidance on starting a gallbladder-free diet, please visit our Registered Dietitians.