What changes without a gallbladder
The gallbladder stores bile and releases it in larger amounts after a fatty meal. Without it, bile flows steadily from the liver into the intestine. Most people notice no difference. Some find that large, very fatty meals cause bloating or loose stools for a while.
The first days
- Start with light, simple foods: soups, toast, rice, bananas, yogurt, lean chicken or fish
- Eat smaller meals more often
- Drink plenty of fluids
- Walk after meals to help digestion
The following weeks
Gradually reintroduce your usual foods. Add richer foods one at a time so you can see how you tolerate them. Most people are back to a normal diet within a few weeks.
- Go slowly with fried foods, fatty meats, cream sauces and very spicy food
- Add fiber gradually from oats, fruit, vegetables and whole grains
- Limit caffeine and alcohol at first if they upset your stomach
Talk with Dr. Arsenous about your options.
If you have loose stools
Mild diarrhea after gallbladder removal is fairly common and usually improves within weeks. Soluble fiber such as oats or psyllium can help. If it continues, talk to us or your primary care provider; medication can help in persistent cases.
When to call
Call the office for fever, yellowing of the skin or eyes, worsening abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, or diarrhea that is severe or doesn’t improve.