Biliary Colic Disease & Diet

Biliary colic, more commonly referred to as gallbladder disease, is characterized by pain in the upper right abdomen that is usually associated with the presence of gallstones or gallbladder inflammation. While described as a type of colic, this type of steady pain typically begins suddenly, lasting anywhere from 30 minutes up to several hours. Most patients complain of pain in the upper right abdomen. With some patients, the pain radiates to the back and right shoulder. Other symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and fever. Foods high in fat and cholesterol content are known to trigger biliary colic episodes.

Follow a Low-Fat, Low-Cholesterol Diet

• Biliary colic is caused by either gallstones or gallbladder inflammation blocking bile--the liquid produced by the liver to help the body digest fat--from traveling from its storage place in the gallbladder to the small intestine. Utilized to digest foods that are high in fat and cholesterol content, bile is a necessary part of the digestive process. Reduce fat intake to no more than 30 g per day to lessen the production of gallstones and minimize gallbladder inflammation so that the nutrients from food are properly absorbed.

Consume Fiber-Rich Foods

• A diet rich in complex carbohydrates helps the digestive system to function properly and is beneficial both in preventing gallbladder inflammation and the development of gallstones. Eat a diet high in insoluble fibers that are found in whole grain breads, cereals and pasta, and brown rice to keep your digestive system at its most efficient. Water soluble fibers found in fruits and vegetables are also beneficial in the prevention and dissolving of gallstones that trigger biliary colic pain.

Avoid Simple Sugars and Refined Carbohydrates

• Consuming too many simple sugars and refined carbohydrates typically found in processed foods, baked goods and desserts can often trigger a biliary colic attack. Replace high-fat and sugar cakes and ice cream with healthier goodies like sherbet, non-fat yogurt and angel food cake. Avoid foods with the word "enriched" listed as part of the ingredients.

Eat Lean Proteins

• Proteins are an important part of any diet. However, those suffering from the tendency to experience biliary colic attacks need to reduce the amount of fat from protein sources. Fish, poultry, lean porks and red meats, and 95 percent fat free lunch meats are better choices than fattier, salted products such as salami, ham and bacon. Prepare foods by grilling or baking rather than frying.

Drink Plenty of Fluids

• Water is the best way to flush your system so that the body's elimination processes function properly. Your body needs at least 6 to 8 glasses of water each day to flush excess cholesterol from your body and produce sufficient bile for proper nutrition absorption.