Posted 2 years ago

Gallbladder Cancer Awareness Month

Gallbladder cancer is the 20th most common cancer worldwide. It accounts for only about 1% of incidence of all cancers, yet survival rates are low because it is often not diagnosed until the advanced stages. The gallbladder is a small sac- like organ that forms part of the biliary tract. Bile produces in the liver, flows into the gallbladder where it is stored and concentrated until released into the small intestine.

Risk Factors:

increases risk of gallbladder stone which increase the risk of gallbladder Cancer

increases levels of hormones, such as insulin and insulin like growth factors which can encourage development/progression of Cancer

Body fat also stimulates a general in inflammatory response, which may contribute to the development of several cancers.

Avoiding rapid weight loss as this can put a strain on the liver and gallbladder and may increase the risk of gallstones. It is best to lose weight steadily and avoid excessive periods of fasting.

Avoiding allergens: In some people, an allergic reaction can trigger gallbladder symptoms. Consider allergy testing.

Smoking tobacco can contribute to gallbladder dysfunction, including gallbladder Cancer.

Female sex

The gallbladder can develop several disorders including severe pain, jaundice, gallstones, gangrene, pancreatitis, and even cancer when an unhealthy diet is prolonged. While there is no specific diet for a healthy gallbladder, following some guidelines can help keep the gallbladder healthy and functioning well.

Foods to Support Gallbladder Health

Lean protein or Plant Based Foods

Protein is essential for the repair and growth of body tissues. Red meat and dairy products are good sources of protein, but they can also be high in fat, sugar and salt which can put stress on the gallbladder.

Low-fat protein foods option.

poultry

fish

nonfat dairy products

nuts and seeds

soy and soy products

legumes, such as beans and lentils

dairy alternatives, such as soy, almond and oat milk

 

Fiber

Fiber supports digestive health, and it can decrease the risk of gallbladder disease by enhancing the movement of food through the gut and lowering the production of secondary bile acids. Biliary or gallbladder sludge is a substance that increases the risk of developing gallbladder disease. It can build up in people who fast or lose weight quickly. Those who followed the high fiber diet accumulated less gallbladder sludge, which reduced their risk of developing gallbladder disease.

Fiber sources:

fruits

vegetables

legumes

nuts and seeds

whole grains, flax

 

Healthful fats

Unsaturated fats, such as omega-3, may protect the gallbladder.

Sources include:

cold-water fish

nuts, such as walnuts

seeds, such as flaxseed

oils from fish or flaxseed

 

Coffee

Substances in coffee may have various benefits for gallbladder function, including balancing certain chemicals and stimulating the action of the gallbladder and intestinal activity. Moderate consumption is 1-2 cups a day.

 

Calcium

Calcium Sources:

dark, leafy greens, such as kale and broccoli

nonfat dairy foods, such as yogurt, cheese, and milk

fortified dairy alternatives, such as almond or flax milk

sardines

fortified orange juice

 

Vitamin C, Magnesium and Folate

Vitamin C sources:

red and green peppers

oranges and other citrus foods

kiwifruit

broccoli

strawberries

tomatoes

Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin, which means that cooking in water may remove some of it from the food. Fresh, raw fruits and vegetables are the best sources.

Magnesium Sources:

almonds and cashews

peanuts and peanut butter

spinach

beans, including black beans and edamame

soy milk

potato

avocado

rice

yogurt

banana

Folate Sources:

beef liver

spinach

black-eyed peas

fortified cereals

asparagus

 

Foods to avoid

Refined carbohydrates

Carbohydrates are a key part of most people’s diet, and unrefined carbohydrates, such as whole grains and oats, can provide essential nutrients. However, refined carbohydrates may increase the risk of gallbladder disorders due to high sugar content

Carbs to limit or avoid include:

added sugars and sweeteners

white flour

other refined grains

premade baked goods, including cookies and cakes

candy and chocolate

 

Unhealthful fats

The gallbladder produces bile that helps the body digest fats. A high intake of fats, and especially saturated and trans fats, may put extra strain on this process.

Unhealthful fats are present in:

red, fatty meats

processed meats

other processed foods

full-fat dairy products

fried foods

many fast foods

premade salad dressings and sauces

premade baked goods and desserts

chocolate and other candies

ice cream