Gallbladder disease and weight loss surgery | a risk factor
The gallbladder is an organ
which is small and pear-shaped, and lies on the right side of the abdomen
beneath the liver, a vital organ of the digestive system which produces fluid
bile. Bile moves to the small intestine. Gallbladder disease, especially
gallstones, is another morbidity related to obesity. Studies report that there
is a strong connection between gallbladder disease and weight loss.
Obesity and gallstones
Obese people are have higher
risk of developing gallstones in their gallbladder. It is because the
cholesterol levels are very high in such people. Moreover, the fatty deposits
may also be very high. Bile is mainly responsible for emulsifying fats.
However, when cholesterol and fatty acids significantly exceed the standard
limit, it fails the bile, and the cholesterol begins to accumulate.
Consequently, the lumps and stones begin to form.
Approximately 25% of obese
people suffer from gallstones at some stage in life. Furthermore, women are
more prone to forming gallstones than men. The higher the weight around the
waist is, the more is the risk of having gallstones. Hence, gallbladder
disease and weight loss are strongly connected.
Weight loss treatment
Laparoscopic and Bariatric surgery is the best
treatment for severe obesity so far. It helps lose 30% to 40% of the
excess weight, which may be up to 24 to 50 pounds in six months. Not only
heavyweight but such a rapid weight loss may also put on risk to develop
gallstones. Studies indicate
that approximately 35% of the people who undergo laparoscopic and bariatric
surgery develop gallstones. The chances are 10% to 12% during 8-16 weeks after
the surgery. The risk increases to about 30% in 12-18 months after the surgery.
However, control over the rate of weight loss may decrease gallstones’ chances,
which is evident in the strong correlation between gallbladder disease
and weight loss.
For the same reason, before
laparoscopic and bariatric surgery, the weight loss surgeon suggests
removing the gallbladder. Even if not before the surgery, it can also be
combined with bariatric surgery.
Gallbladder and weight loss
Gallbladder removal not only
helps in avoiding the complications of gallstones but also helps with weight
loss. Here are a few facts about gallbladder disease and weight loss.
·
After the gallbladder removal, the weight loss surgeon would
suggest you avoid fatty foods. Hence, you will be losing weight side by side as
well.
·
Post-surgery, spicy foods are also not allowed.
·
You would be able to eat small portions of food only. Hence,
cutting out your diet would also help you maintain your weight.
#WeightLoss, #Surgery, #GallbladderDisease
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