What Your Doctor DOESN'T Tell You About Gallbladder Removal
Roughly 1.2 million people in the U.S. Have their gallbladders removed each year. This is one of the most common procedures done and is considered quite routine. Gallbladder removal is needed for several reasons and is sometimes deemed necessary for the person to have a better quality of life. I was however shocked to find that after post-op many patients are left in the dark about long-term care in the absence of a gallbladder and some have lifelong effects from it.
One of the harsh realities after a cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal) is there is no longer a place for the bile to be collected. The bile is emptied from the liver and released directly onto the small intestines. For some, this causes discomfort and acid reflux-like symptoms. This bile dumping can also lead to watery stool and fecal incontinence and unfortunately becomes the new norm for most. However, the bad news doesn't end there. Prolonged bile exposure in the colon can cause a progression of colon rectal cancer, 30% higher in fact than those who have not had a cholecystectomy according to mdpicom. Other studies also found links to pancreatic and liver cancers. This is why digestive support and supplementation are important for optimal health.
Diet and Supplementation:
After gallbladder removal, your body may have a harder time digesting certain nutrients and this can lead to nutrient deficiencies and malabsorption. Some people may experience digestive issues short term but others can have chronic lifetime issues. Diet is key as your body now has a harder time digesting fatty or greasy foods and should be limited or avoided. Supplementing with bile salts and digestive enzymes can help break down fats when taken with a meal as well as probiotics to balance good gut bacteria. Including fiber in your diet will boost probiotics as most fiber is considered prebiotic - AKA probiotic food. Fiber also regulates the digestive tract to keep bowel movements regular and from bloat buildup.
A few other supplements to add are:
Calcium and Vitamin D - For bone health and reducing osteoporosis.
Vitamin B12 - Prevents anemia (especially important after surgery).
Vitamin C- Boosts the immune system and promotes healing.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids- Reduces inflammation and support heart health.
Herbs:
Focusing on liver health is essential. Often gallbladder issues are due to an unhealthy liver. An unhealthy liver produces bad-quality bile, this remains true after the gallbladder is removed. Keeping your liver healthy not only supports proper organ function, removes toxins from the body but also goes hand in hand with your digestive system. Herbs that are beneficial in helping the liver are:
Yellow Dock Root- This herb purifies the blood and increases bile flow to aid in the digestion of fats.
Burdock Root- Flushes toxins through the skin but when used in combination with yellow dock root it becomes a potent diuretic that removes toxins through urination instead of the liver. Be cautious with this herb as some develop a rash after handling burdock leaves.
Green Tea- Is high in the andioxodient compounds catechins that support liver function. Do Not consume green tea if on blood thinners if you do seek guidance from a health practitioner.
Turmeric Root- This powerful herb not only protects the liver against various toxins but can inhibit liver disease from liver toxins.
Artichoke Extract- Stimulates the production and discharge of bile. Fun fact: Artichokes are an ancient remedy for the liver dating back to 400 BC.
Milk Thistle- Is the #1 most common herb prescribed to treat the liver. It decongests the liver of toxin buildup.
Remember that everyone reacts differently to certain supplements and herbs if you have any hesitations feel reach out for a consultation with me or your healthcare provider.
- Happy Healing from Hooser Health
