What to Eat Post-Gallbladder Surgery

Did you know that on a yearly basis, about 500,000 people get their gallbladders removed? It’s a common procedure that can relieve you of painful symptoms.

At Wyoming Medical Associates, board-certified surgeon Jacob Rinker, MD, FACS, and the rest of our team are gallbladder surgery specialists. Our expertise and care provide a safe and successful procedure. And we monitor your condition after your gallbladder removal to make sure you continue to feel well.

Let’s first look at symptoms that may lead to removal of your gallbladder.

Symptoms for gallbladder removal

If your gallbladder develops gallstones from bile blockages, you can have uncomfortable symptoms that include:

• Pain
• Bloating
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Fever
• Yellowing of your skin

Since you can experience normal digestion without your gallbladder, you can have it removed. But how do you care for your body after your surgery? Our team gives guidance on how to take care of yourself once your gallbladder has been removed. 

Depending on your surgery, we may have different recovery options for you when it comes to resting and staying off your feet. We also want you to pay attention to your diet.

Diet after surgery

After you have your gallbladder removed, your diet can have an impact on your recovery. To avoid diarrhea, gas, or bloating, we recommend the following:

Avoid eating foods high in fat

Fatty foods include anything that’s fried and greasy. Instead, choose low-fat foods or foods that have less than 3 grams of fat per serving. You can find that information on the labels of the items you buy.

Add fiber to your diet

Fiber helps normalize your bowel movements and reduce straining. Start by eating small amounts of soluble fiber, such as beans, oat bran, fruits, and vegetables. You can progress to eating more of it over the following few weeks.

Eat small amounts throughout the day

When you eat smaller amounts, you provide a better mix with your available bile. Eat a balanced meal that includes lean protein, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

If you have diarrhea that doesn’t go away, avoid sweets, caffeine, and dairy products. We can also recommend medication, as needed.

If you need to have your gallbladder removed, you can trust that you’re in good hands with Dr. Rinker. Contact us today to schedule an appointment at either one of our offices in Gillette or Casper, Wyoming. We also offer telehealth consultations for your convenience and safety.