Preventing Cholecystitis With Diet
October 26, 2009
Inflammation of the wall of the gallbladder is known as cholecystitis. Cholecystitis is usually associated with development of stones in the gallbladder.
In lesser number of cases, inflammation of the gallbladder wall occurs without the presence of stones in the gallbladder. Although, this disease affects both men and women, compared to men, women are more likely to experience cholecystitis. The risk of cholecystitis is greater after 40 years of age.
Cholecystitis causes
Bile comprises of cholesterol like fatty substance, which might solidify to form gallstones. Sometimes deposition of calcium or bile pigments might harden into gallstones. One or several gallstones, of different sizes, might be present in the gallbladder. In normal circumstances, these stones do not obstruct the normal activities of the gallbladder.
Many people with gallstones in their stomach might never experience any problem with the gallstones present in their gallbladder. However, sometimes these gallstones might obstruct the flow of contents through the gallbladder, creating painful conditions. Cholecystitis is one such problem created by gallstones.
If the gallstone blocks the cystic duct, which is the tube connecting the gallbladder to the bile duct, bile could not pass out of the gallbladder. As a result, bile starts accumulating in the gallbladder, stretching it, and causing inflammation of the walls of the gallbladder.
The inflamed gallbladder wall becomes susceptible to infection, further complicating the condition. Sudden development of gallbladder inflammation is known as acute cholecystitis. Occurrence of repeated cholecytitis might cause chronic cholecystitis. Chronic cholecystitis is characterized by prolonged inflammation of the gallbladder wall. The wall of the gallbladder becomes thick, causing the gallbladder to shrink and lose its ability to perform its normal function.
Cholecystitis prevention
Studies have shown that there could be a possible link between diet and risk of cholecystitis. Excess intake of refined carbohydrate could increase the risk of the disease. Replacing refined carbohydrates with unrefined carbohydrates or whole grain products could help to prevent formation of gallstones, which are primarily responsible for causing cholecystitis.
Researchers have found that pectin, found in apples, could significantly arrest growth of gallstones. Pectin could also help to dissolve gallstones. Excess intake of animal proteins tends to increase the risk of gallstone formation.
On the other hand, plant protein, such as soybeans, not only lowers the risk of gallstone formation, but it can also help to dissolve the stones. To prevent cholecystitis, you should also cut down the saturated fats in your diet. Fiber rich fruits and vegetables can also help to prevent this disease.
Is cholecystitis painful