Medical Health Encyclopedia

Sugar. High-intake of sugar has been associated with an increased risk for gallstones. Diets that are high in carbohydrates (pasta, bread) can also increase risk. Carbohydrates are converted to sugar in the body.

Alcohol. A few studies, including one in 2003, reported a lower risk for gallstones with alcohol consumption. Even small amounts (one ounce per day) have been found to reduce the risk of gallstones in women by 20%. Moderate intake (defined as one or two drinks a day) also appears to have heart protective benefits. It should be noted, however, that even moderate intake increases the risk for breast cancer in women. Pregnant women, people who can't drink moderately, and people with liver disease should not drink at all.

Vitamin C. Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) appears to help break cholesterol down in bile. Vitamin C deficiencies have been associated with a higher risk for gallstones. One 2000 study, which confirmed some previous ones, reported that women with high blood levels of ascorbic acid had a lower risk for gallbladder disease than women with low levels.

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Coffee. In one study, men who drank two or more cups of regular coffee daily (either instant, filtered, or espresso) had a 40% lower risk of developing gallbladder disease over ten years than men who did not drink coffee regularly. Those who drank more than four cups had the lowest risk. A more recent study in 2000 did not find any general protective effect, although women with gallstones who drank coffee reported fewer symptoms than those who didn't.

Preventing Gallstones During Weight Loss

Maintaining a normal weight and avoiding rapid weight loss are the keys to reducing the risk of gallstones. Taking the medication ursodiol (also called ursodeoxycholic acid, or Actigall) during weight loss may reduce the risk for people who are very overweight and need to lose weight quickly. This medication is ordinarily used to dissolve existing gallstones. It should be noted, however, that it is very expensive. A promising 2001 study suggested that orlistat (Xenical), a drug for treating obesity, may protect against gallstone formation during weight loss. The drug appears to reduce bile acids and other components involved in gallstone production.