Tips for Preventing Gallstones

Although most of the people who suffer from gallstones are over the age of forty, they can form at any time and certain behavioral habits will make you a more likely candidate. Preventing gallstones is easy if you are careful about diet and exercise. The majority of people who have gallstones or gallbladder disease are overweight and exercise seldom, so you can decrease your chances by being careful about your weight. If you have a family history of gallstones or gallbladder disease, you should probably be even more careful than others.

Eat a Low-Fat, Low-Cholesterol Diet
One of the most effective ways to prevent gallstones is to eat less fat and cholesterol. A high-fat diet can increase the levels of cholesterol in your bile, which will eventually begin to solidify, forming gallstones. This can also lead to irritable bowel syndrome and other GI problems later in life. When you do consume fat and cholesterol, opt for monosaturated fat to ensure that it breaks down more smoothly in your system. This is especially true if you are overweight or obese; immediately begin to decrease your fat intake.

Avoid Complex Carbohydrates and Refined Sugars
Another way to prevent gallstones is to be careful about consuming complex carbohydrates and refined sugars. Diabetics are likely candidates for gallstones because a fluctuating insulin level can lead to gallbladder disease. If you are concerned about your insulin levels, test your blood sugar level once every month to make sure that you're on target. If not, consult a doctor about adjusting medications -- such as beta blockers -- and a nutritionist about your diet.