Thanks to minimally invasive techniques, gallbladder removal is typically a relatively straightforward surgery with most people able to go home the same day.
However, to ensure the smoothest recovery, you’ll need to make important changes to your diet, especially in the short term.
At his private practice in Los Angeles, Fullerton, and Orange, California, board-certified general surgical oncologist Dr. Trevan Fischer performs a wide variety of innovative surgeries for everything from gallbladder and appendix removals to skin and other cancer treatments.
Dr. Fischer also spends time working on clinical trials and training the next generation of surgical oncology specialists at Cedars-Sinai affiliate The Angeles Clinic and Research Institute.
While the gallbladder isn't a critical organ, and people can live without it, it does serve several roles in the digestive process.
The gallbladder aids in the digestion of fats and lipids, stores and concentrates bile, and slowly releases it during digestion.
Without a gallbladder for storage, the bile moves straight from the bile ducts into the digestive system. Since bile can work as a laxative, this may cause diarrhea for days to weeks after surgery.
As the body adjusts to its new normal without a gallbladder, certain dietary changes can help make the transition smoother. This includes both meal size and frequency, as well as specific foods to eat and avoid.
After about a month, most people are able to return to their regular diet.
In the first few days after surgery, a clear liquid diet including broths and gelatin helps the digestive system heal and recover. After this period, more frequent small meals ( four to six a day) can help ease the body back into a normal routine.
Initially, soft and bland foods low in fiber are recommended. Gradually add healthy choices like lean meat, low-fat dairy, fruits, and vegetables. Eat small portions to avoid cramping, bloating, gas, and diarrhea.
Fiber should also be introduced slowly and in limited quantities. Soluble fiber, such as that found in oats and barley, is a good choice. If fiber causes digestive issues, discuss with our team the possibility of using an over-the-counter fiber supplement in the short term.
Avoid fatty foods. This includes ultra-processed options like fast food, fried food, and pizza. Limit full-fat dairy products such as butter, cheese, whole milk and yogurt, and ice cream. High-fat meats like beef, poultry with the skin on, and processed lunch meats should be off the menu as well.
Watch out for cooking oils because even olive oil can cause stomach upset during the recovery period.
Spicy foods can irritate the stomach lining and cause unwanted digestive issues, so avoid them.
Finally, consider beverages. Skip the alcohol, caffeinated drinks, and soda, especially in the early days of recovery. Instead, drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and aid in healing.
If you've been diagnosed with an issue that requires gallbladder removal, Dr. Fischer can help. Click to book an appointment or call the office today at 310-807-2688.
