Can you eat Avocado without a gallbladder
In this short article we will address the query, “ can you eat avocado without a gallbladder?” and other related queries including what would result in the removal of the gallbladder, the effect of this removal on digestion, side effects, dietary changes and what foods to avoid following the removal of the gallbladder.
Can you eat avocado without a gallbladder?
Yes, you can eat avocado without a gallbladder. The gallbladder is an accessory organ of the digestive system where bile is stored and concentrated.
Bile is a digestive fluid made in the liver whose main role is to facilitate the digestion of fats by breaking them down into smaller fatty acids.
What causes the removal of the gallbladder?
Removal of the gallbladder is referred to as cholecystectomy. The most common reason for this surgical procedure is the formation of gallstones in the bile duct which block bile from exiting the gallbladder to the small intestine.
Other reasons that may lead to the removal of the gallbladder are the formation of a tumor or a chronic infection of the gallbladder.
How does the removal of the gallbladder affect the digestion process?
To comprehend the effects of removing the gallbladder one needs to understand the function of the gallbladder. We mentioned earlier the key functions of the gallbladder are to store and concentrate bile.
In the absence of the gallbladder, bile cannot be stored or concentrated. As a result, bile produced in the liver will continuously be trickling into the small intestine and it will also be diluted. Therefore, one has small amounts of diluted bile. This does indeed change the normal digestion of fats.
What are the side effects of gallbladder removal?
Some common side effects following the removal of the gallbladder include:
- Inefficient digestion of fats which does not persist for long
- Diarrhea as bile creates a laxative effect
- Abdominal pain
- Constipation
- Flatulence or gas
- Acid reflux or heartburn
- Nausea and vomiting
- Jaundice
Does the diet change following gallbladder removal?
Making changes to the diet following the removal of the gallbladder can minimize and manage the side effects experienced. Gradual changes need to be made post-surgery and over time to help the body adapt to the absence of the gallbladder
Gradual reintroduction of food
Following the surgery for the first few days, clear liquids such as broth and a soft bland diet including mashed potatoes are recommended to avoid any strain on the digestive system. It is also essential to avoid stuffing yourself, rather opt for small frequent meals.
Gradual reintroduction of foods back into the diet minimizes side effects such as diarrhea, bloating and abdominal discomfort.
Moderate fat diet
Despite the absence of the gallbladder, fats, especially healthy and naturally occurring fats in food, are an essential component of our diet. Moreover, fat is what triggers the release of bile. Too much fat would be detrimental however moderate healthy fat is recommended. Healthy sources of fat include avocados, nuts, seeds, and olives.
Lean protein
Proteins tend to be a source of fat as well, especially animal proteins. For this reason, it is paramount to focus on lean sources to avoid high-fat consumption. High-fat consumption results in abdominal discomfort. Chicken, salmon, turkey and cod may be good options in this case.
Eating lean proteins entails steering clear of high-fat sources such as ground beef, bolognas and sausages and high-fat dairy products such as ice cream, cheese, butter, lard and whole milk. For dairy products, a low-fat option would be ideal.
Fiber-rich foods
There are two types of fiber soluble and insoluble fiber. Soluble fiber as the name suggests dissolves in water forming a gel-like substance which helps to make stool soft. Sources include oats, beans, lentils, chia seeds, nuts, apples and blueberries.
Insoluble fiber does not dissolve in water and is found in the skin and seeds of many vegetables and fruits. This type of fiber keeps things moving in the digestive tract and promotes regular bowel movements.
Both types of fiber are essential in a healthy diet, however, upping the amount of soluble fiber after a cholecystectomy helps with bowel movement. When adding fiber-rich foods back into the diet, the process should be gradual, especially those rich in gas.
What foods should be avoided following gallbladder removal?
Following the removal of the gallbladder, foods to steer clear of include:
- Deep-fried foods
- Spicy foods
- Highly processed foods with refined sugar
- High-fat meats and dairy products
- Caffeine and carbonated beverages
Other FAQs about Avocado that you may be interested in.
Conclusion
In this short article we have addressed the query, “ can you eat avocado without a gallbladder?” and other related queries including what would result in the removal of the gallbladder, the effect of this removal on digestion, side effects, dietary changes and what foods to avoid following the removal of the gallbladder.
References
https://www.newchoicehealth.com/gallbladder-removal-surgery/diet
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/diet-after-gallbladder-removal#foods-to-avoid
