How to Prevent Gallstones

It begins with an ache in the lower back, then a feeling of being bloated. Your entire abdomen hurts and your right side feels like someone is twisting a knife in it. You can't find a comfortable position to wait out the attack, which can last for hours. If only you'd taken steps to prevent developing gallstones--like these.

Instructions

• 1

  Maintain a healthy weight. Even a few extra pounds can affect how well your gallbladder empties, allowing gallstones to form. Many people who were previously overweight, then lost weight find they also develop gallstones, especially if they lose weight by fasting.

• 2

  Control your diabetes. Diabetics often have elevated triglyceride levels, which lead to the development of gallstones.

• 3

  Watch your cholesterol. Gallstones form when your body has to remove excess cholesterol, which then clumps together in the gallbladder. People who take cholesterol-lowering drugs often develop gallstones.

• 4

  Consider carefully before taking estrogen. Birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy increase the risk of developing gallstones. Even increased estrogen levels from pregnancy may lead to gallstones.