When bile (bile juice) solidifies and hardens in the gallbladder, it forms stones, a medical term for cholelithiasis. This problem is more common in women than men. Modern lifestyles, an unbalanced diet, and lack of physical activity are considered the main causes. Obesity, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and abnormal lipid profiles also increase the risk of gallstone formation.
Effects of Diet and Alcohol
If your diet includes a high amount of oily, fried foods, refined carbohydrates, and low-fiber foods, this can be a major cause of gallstone formation. The gallbladder’s function is to store bile for fat digestion, but consistently eating unhealthy fats and refined carbohydrates (such as white bread, pastries, sweets, and refined flour products) disrupts bile balance. Excessive alcohol consumption also negatively impacts both the gallbladder and liver. This not only leads to excess fat accumulation but also causes problems like abdominal bloating, dyslipidemia, and pancreatic calcification, which increase the risk of gallstone formation.
Rapid Weight Loss and a Sedentary Lifestyle
While obesity is a major cause of gallstones, rapid weight loss or crash dieting can be equally dangerous. When a person loses a lot of weight in a short period of time, the liver releases more cholesterol into the bile, increasing the risk of stone formation. Furthermore, a sedentary lifestyle also contributes to this condition. People who do not exercise regularly or whose daily routine involves limited physical activity experience a slower metabolism and impaired bile flow. This is why regular exercise is crucial to maintaining a healthy digestive system and reducing the risk of gallstones.
Unprescribed Medications and Prevention
Taking medications without a doctor’s advice can also increase the risk of gallstones. In particular, weight loss medications, estrogen replacement therapy, oral contraceptives, and parenteral nutrition significantly increase the risk of gallstone formation. Therefore, it is crucial to consult a doctor before taking any medication. The most effective way to prevent gallstones is to eat a balanced diet, drink plenty of water, exercise regularly, and lead a healthy lifestyle. This problem can be easily avoided if diet and daily routine are improved in a timely manner.
