Plano, TX, Sept 15, 2015 – Gallbladder surgery is often performed to eliminate a source of chronic pain, but that doesn’t mean a little discomfort doesn’t follow. After all, this little organ is responsible for assisting with digestion. While it can most certainly be lived without, learning to adjust in the days and weeks following surgery can be a challenge. Fortunately, there are some tips patients can use to keep post-surgical digestive discomforts at a minimum.

“The gallbladder is responsible for holding bile from the liver to aid in the breakdown of fatty foods,” says Dr. Nick Nicholson, founder and lead surgeon of Abdominal Surgery Specialists, a part of the Nicholson Clinic for Weight Loss Surgery. “While digestion can occur quite effectively in its absence, some patients find their tolerance for greasy foods goes down. This is normal, and for many it will pass. Learning to adjust during that waiting period, however, can make life without a gallbladder a lot more pleasant.”

Here are just a few tips recommended to ease bloating, gas, indigestion and other discomforts following gallbladder removal:

• Resume eating solid foods slowly – The first few days after surgery are best passed on a liquid or clear diet. Broths and gelatins will suffice as the body adjusts to its new reality. Be sure to introduce solid foods back into the diet slowly, as well, to ensure a chance to gauge reaction to them.
• Steer clear of fats – High-fat foods, such as French fires, chips, greasy burgers, pizza, and other common fare can cause a great deal of discomfort initially. Avoid these things entirely at first and then slowly try them out to get a feel for the body’s reaction.
• Spicy foods may pose a challenge – Spicy foods, too, may cause some discomfort following surgery. Steer clear initially and then take care when attempting to eat them.
• Watch out for high fiber foods – These foods, although important parts of a healthy diet, can cause bloating, gas and cramps, among other symptoms. Avoid them at first and then limit intake until the body adjusts.

“Most people find they can resume normal, healthy eating habits after surgery,” says Dr. Nicholson. “It might just take some time to adjust. Foods that are known to cause digestive discomfort, however, can make the recovery period unnecessarily difficult, so avoid them at first and then try them one at a time to see how the body reacts.”

About Abdominal Surgery Specialists
Founded by Dr. Nick Nicholson, one of the country’s leading weight loss surgeons and co-author of “Weight Loss Surgery: The Real Skinny,” Abdominal Surgery Specialists provides patients with a variety of options to treat conditions including gallbladders, hernias, reflux and obesity.