Why dieting for weight loss can cause gallstones

Dieting for weight loss may cause gallstones, mainly related to changes in bile composition, reduced gallbladder contraction, imbalanced dietary structure, metabolic disorders, rapid weight loss, and other factors. Gallstones are solid substances formed by the deposition of cholesterol or bile pigments in bile. During dieting, bile concentration and delayed gallbladder emptying may induce stone formation.

1. Changes in bile composition

Long term low-fat diet can lead to an increase in cholesterol levels in bile and a decrease in bile acid synthesis. When cholesterol is supersaturated in bile, it is easy to precipitate crystals and gradually form cholesterol stones. This situation can be improved by gradually restoring a balanced diet and increasing dietary fiber intake. In severe cases, it is necessary to follow the doctor's advice to use choleretic drugs such as ursodeoxycholic acid capsules and chenodeoxycholic acid tablets to dissolve stones.

2. Reduced gallbladder contraction

Prolonged fasting time can inhibit the secretion of cholecystokinin, leading to delayed gallbladder emptying. Bile accumulates and concentrates in the gallbladder, leading to the deposition of bile salts and the formation of stones. It is recommended to maintain a regular eating frequency, with 4-5 small meals per day and multiple meals. If necessary, magnesium sulfate solution should be used to promote bile excretion. Ultrasound examination can detect abnormal gallbladder contraction function.

3. Imbalance in dietary structure

Extreme restriction of carbohydrates or fats in weight loss methods can disrupt the balance of bile acid enterohepatic circulation. Lack of essential fatty acids can affect bile acid synthesis, while a high protein diet increases bile calcium ion concentration. Adjust the diet structure to include proper amount of healthy fat such as nuts and olive oil, and avoid the use of traditional Chinese patent medicines and simple preparations such as Paishi granules to remove stones by oneself.

4. Metabolic disorders

During rapid weight loss, fat breakdown increases and free fatty acids enter the liver, affecting cholesterol metabolism. This metabolic change causes a 3-5 fold increase in bile cholesterol saturation, which is commonly seen in patients after weight loss surgery. It is necessary to monitor liver function indicators, and if necessary, use anethol trisulfide tablets to regulate bile composition, combined with polyene phosphatidylcholine capsules to protect liver cells.

5. Rapid weight loss

Losing more than 1.5 kilograms per week significantly increases the risk of gallstones. When weight drops suddenly, gallbladder contraction function is impaired and bile stasis time is prolonged. Suggest controlling the speed of weight loss and promoting bile flow through moderate exercise. For those who have already formed stones, extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy or laparoscopic cholecystectomy may be considered, but the indications must be evaluated by a gastroenterologist.

To prevent diet related gallstones, it is necessary to maintain a daily intake of 15-20 grams of dietary fiber, with priority given to soluble fibers such as oats and miscellaneous grains. Ensure a daily water intake of at least 2000 milliliters and avoid prolonged fasting. When symptoms such as upper right abdominal pain and postprandial bloating occur, timely liver and gallbladder ultrasound examination should be performed. During the weight loss period, it is recommended to lose no more than 5% of total weight per month and regularly monitor blood lipid and bile acid spectrum indicators.