Gallstones are the most
common gall-bladder problem, capable of causing colics and jaundice stones in
the gall-bladder that usually go undetected for a long time until they block
its outlet.
Bloating and pressure under the right
ribcage are indications of liver and gall-bladder trouble and possible stone
development. Mild symptoms of indigestion, gas and bloating from eating rich,
oil or creamy foods high in fat content are often a sign of inadequate bile.
This digestive trouble affects the absorption of all foods and hinders the
assimilation of the fat-soluble vitamins, A, D, E and K in particular. Pinching
or aching just under the right ribcage, aching between the shoulder-blades and
a lasting bitter taste in the mouth are other signs of gallbladder or liver
trouble.
Gallstone colics most typically occur
after eating rich, fried foods or legumes and after drinking coffee. Most
gallbladder trouble is associated with a poor diet and a sluggish liver. When
too little bile is produced, stones are more likely to form. Also the longer
bile remains in the gallbladder, the thicker it becomes, increasing the
likelihood of stones. Eating foods that stimulate the gallbladder, such as the
essential fatty acids, prevents the development of stones. Essential fatty
acids support the transport of cholesterol and stimulate bile when production
and release are poor. For this reason, the consumption of fats should be
limited to natural, cold-pressed oils high in essential fatty acids, such as
flax-seed oil.
A high-fibre diet is key to the prevention
of gallstones. Especially beneficial is water-soluble fibre, such as pectin,
found in apples or carrots or the gums found in oat bran and dried beans.
Avoid the intake of animal fat or
artificially hardened fats such as margarine. Gall-stones are composed mostly
of animal fat and cholesterol. Also, limit milk and milk products as casein in
dairy foods promotes gallstone formation.
Olive oil, nut and seed oils like
flax-seed or walnut oil are all beneficial to the gall-bladder. Use them daily
on salads or in dishes like mashed potatoes.
A number of herbal remedies are used for
the purpose of dissolving the stone and to improve functioning of the liver and
gallbladder in order to prevent any recurrence. Amongst these is Dandelion,
which gently stimulates the liver and reduces cholesterol. The fresh young
leaves should be mixed with salad greens in the daily salad. Taking the juice
of the Dandelion before food will help the sluggish liver and stimulate the
digestive process.
Another herbal remedy of great use in the
prevention and treatment of gallstones in Berberis tincture. Take 15-20 drops
of tincture three times daily before meals.
Artichoke and rhubarb stimulate bile flow
and help heal gall-bladder inflammation. Bitters from lettuce, endive and
chicory also stimulate bile flow.
Be sure to get an accurate diagnosis from
your GP before attempting any self-help therapies.
David Foley
MNIMH, MRCHM
Medical Herbalist
