Can I eat beef soup 7 days after gallbladder removal?

Nov 09, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Gao Jun
Introduction
In general, beef soup should not be consumed 7 days after cholecystectomy. Digestive capacity for fats may not have fully recovered by 7 days post-surgery. Beef soup may contain a relatively high amount of fat, and consuming it at this stage could increase the burden on the digestive system, leading to gastrointestinal discomfort such as bloating, abdominal pain, and diarrhea, which is unfavorable for postoperative recovery.

Generally, it is not recommended to consume beef soup within 7 days after cholecystectomy.

After cholecystectomy, the normal storage and release pattern of bile is disrupted, causing bile to flow directly from the liver into the small intestine. Within 7 days following surgery, the ability to digest fat may not have fully recovered. Beef soup often contains a significant amount of fat, which dissolves into the broth during cooking. Even if the visible fat layer on the surface is removed, residual fat may still remain. Consuming beef soup at this stage could increase the burden on the digestive system, potentially leading to gastrointestinal discomfort such as bloating, abdominal pain, or diarrhea, thus hindering postoperative recovery. Therefore, beef soup should be avoided within 7 days after cholecystectomy.

After cholecystectomy, patients should follow a diet that is light, low in fat, and easy to digest. Avoid greasy foods and instead opt for liquid or semi-liquid foods such as rice broth, lotus root starch, and millet porridge to promote nutrient digestion and absorption. It is advisable to eat small, frequent meals, which ensures adequate nutrition while minimizing strain on the gastrointestinal tract.