Prevention of Gallstones

Not every gallstone can be prevented, because age, sex and family history matter. Many risk factors can be reduced.

Practical steps

• Keep a healthy weight: gradual loss of about 0.5 kg a week if overweight
• Avoid crash diets and skipped meals: long fasting makes bile concentrated
• Eat a fibre-rich diet: vegetables, fruit, whole grains and pulses
• Limit fried, oily and sugary food
• Stay active: regular exercise such as brisk walking lowers risk
• Manage diabetes and high triglycerides

For people at higher risk

Those who have weight-loss surgery or long hospital stays on tube feeding may be given UDCA by a specialist to lower stone formation. Women using hormone therapy should discuss the risk with their doctor.

Early checks

If you have a family history or a blood disorder such as sickle cell or thalassaemia, tell your doctor about any upper belly pain so an ultrasound can be done.

Ayurvedic view

A regular routine, warm and lightly spiced food and avoiding overeating are traditional suggestions. They match general healthy habits but are not proven to prevent stones.

Key point

See a doctor early for repeated pain after fatty meals instead of waiting for an emergency.

After pregnancy or weight loss