What To Eat After Gallbladder Surgery & What To Avoid
If you are preparing to get gallbladder surgery, you may be a little anxious about the recovery process. More specifically, you may want to know what you will need to eat after gallbladder surgery. First, you should know that gallbladder surgery is a very safe procedure that has been performed thousands of times. There is a low risk of complications, and you can safely live without your gallbladder. Maintaining a balanced diet is crucial for a smooth recovery and overall health post-surgery. So, what is the gallbladder removal diet like? What are the foods to avoid after gallbladder surgery? Read on to learn more.
What Is Gallbladder Removal Surgery?
Your gallbladder is an organ that secretes and stores bile in a concentrated form. Bile is created by the liver in order to help you digest fats. Gallbladder removal surgery, or cholecystectomy, is performed for a variety of reasons. However, the most common reason is because of gallstones, which cause intense pain and can be dangerous if left untreated. As stated before, you can live a perfectly normal and healthy life without a gallbladder. But there are foods that you will need to avoid. What are the foods you should avoid after gallbladder removal surgery?
What To Eat After Gallbladder Surgery: The Gallbladder Removal Diet
In the days after getting laparoscopic gallbladder surgery in Baltimore, you will be put on a clear liquid diet for a few days. Clear liquids include water, broth, and electrolyte beverages. This diet is mainly to help your digestive system recover while still allowing you to get the hydration you need while you recover. After a few days, you’ll be able to start adding more foods to your diet. Your doctor may advise you to stick to a BRAT (bread, rice, applesauce, and toast/crackers) diet or something very similar.
You will want to eat bland foods that are easy to digest and provide you with necessary carbohydrates, which are key to making sure you can recover. You’ll likely be on this diet for a few days after transitioning from clear liquids. From here, you’ll be able to add solid foods back in. The key is to avoid foods that are high in fat and to eat smaller meals until you can handle eating normally again. It is also important to avoid fatty meats, such as processed or high-fat cuts, as they can be difficult to digest and may cause discomfort.
Foods you should avoid after gallbladder removal surgery include:
- Deep-fried foods (fries, potato chips, fried chicken)
- High-fat meats and dairy products, as well as products that contain them (like cream-based soups or pasta sauces)
- Any food made with butter, lard, or hydrogenated oil
- Pizza
- Cheeseburgers
- Chocolate
- Sugary foods such as candies, cakes, and pastries
The general rule: if it’s high in fat, avoid it! Some other foods you may want to avoid are:
- High-fiber foods such as nuts, seeds, and legumes should be avoided initially, as too much fiber can cause digestive issues
- Alcoholic beverages
- Spicy foods
You might be worried that you’ll have to give up these foods for the rest of your life. The good news is that you don’t have to! You can start adding high-fat foods back into your diet when your doctor tells you it’s safe, which is generally after a month post-op. However, it’s highly recommended to stick to a low-fat diet for most of your meals (and enjoy an occasional indulgence every once in a while).
Conclusion
Recovering from gallbladder removal surgery can be a smooth process if you adhere to a balanced diet and avoid certain foods. By following a low-fat diet and gradually reintroducing a variety of foods, you can support your digestive system and overall health.
If you’re interested in learning more about surgical procedures, including laparoscopic bariatric procedures and their benefits, our team at Ascension Saint Agnes Bariatric Surgery is here to help. We specialize in a range of surgical solutions tailored to meet your health needs. Ready to take the next step in your health journey? Contact us today!
Frequently Asked Questions
How soon can I return to a normal diet after gallbladder surgery?
Typically, you can gradually reintroduce a normal diet a few weeks after surgery, but it’s crucial to follow your doctor’s advice. Start with low-fat and bland foods, and slowly incorporate more variety, including healthy fats and high-fiber foods.
Can I eat high-fiber foods right after surgery?
It’s best to avoid high-fiber foods immediately after surgery, as they can cause digestive discomfort. Gradually add soluble fiber into your diet as your digestive system adjusts.
Are very sweet foods okay to eat after gallbladder removal?
Very sweet foods should be consumed in moderation, especially initially. Focus on a balanced diet with healthy fats and fibers to support digestion and overall recovery.