What happens if a person has their gallbladder removed?

Sep 15, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Gao Jun

Introduction

Under normal circumstances, after a person undergoes gallbladder removal, the body experiences changes in digestion and nutrient absorption, mainly including short-term digestive discomfort, reduced fat digestion capacity, impaired absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, gradual compensatory adaptation of the bile duct, and long-term dietary adjustments. Postoperative patients should follow medical advice, gradually adjust their diet and lifestyle habits, avoid overeating, and maintain regular meal times.

Generally, after the removal of the gallbladder, the body experiences changes in digestion and nutrient absorption, mainly including short-term digestive discomfort, reduced fat digestion capacity, impaired absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, gradual compensatory adaptation of the bile duct, and long-term dietary adjustments. The details are as follows:

1. Short-term digestive discomfort: In the early postoperative period, the gallbladder's function of storing bile disappears, and bile secreted by the liver flows directly into the intestine, potentially irritating the intestinal mucosa and causing bloating, diarrhea, or mild abdominal pain. These discomforts usually occur after eating, particularly after consuming greasy foods.

2. Reduced fat digestion capacity: The gallbladder normally stores and concentrates bile, which is essential for fat digestion. After its removal, bile is continuously secreted in small amounts and cannot be concentrated when consuming high-fat meals, leading to inadequate fat digestion. This may result in oily stools and increased bowel movements.

3. Impaired absorption of fat-soluble vitamins: Fats act as carriers for vitamins A, D, E, and K. Reduced fat digestion indirectly affects the absorption of these vitamins. Long-term deficiency might develop—for example, insufficient vitamin D can impact calcium absorption—but this can be improved with appropriate dietary adjustments.

4. Gradual compensatory adaptation of the bile duct: Over time, the bile duct gradually dilates and partially replaces the gallbladder's function of storing bile, regulating the coordination between bile secretion and meals. This adaptation process may take several months to a year, during which the body's tolerance to fat improves and digestive discomfort gradually subsides.

5. Long-term dietary adjustments: Long-term dietary modifications are necessary after surgery. Initially, high-fat and greasy foods such as fried foods and fatty meats should be avoided. Later, fat intake can be gradually increased but should remain controlled in quantity, with preference given to healthy fats such as vegetable oils and lean meats. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains should be maintained.

Postoperative patients should follow medical advice to gradually adjust their diet and lifestyle, avoiding overeating and maintaining regular meal times. Most individuals can resume normal work and life after an adaptation period, with minimal impact on overall health.

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What foods should patients with gallstones avoid eating?

In general, to avoid stimulating gallbladder contraction and worsening their condition, patients with gallstones should avoid foods high in cholesterol and fat, spicy and irritating foods, alcoholic beverages, and overly sweet foods. In daily life, in addition to controlling their diet, gallstone patients should also maintain regular meal times and avoid binge eating or prolonged fasting.

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What meats can patients with gallstones eat?

In general, to reduce the burden on the gallbladder, patients with gallstones should consume low-fat, easily digestible meats such as skinless poultry, fish, lean pork, lean beef, and rabbit meat. In daily life, in addition to choosing appropriate types of meat, patients should avoid frying or braising when cooking; instead, they should prefer light methods such as steaming, boiling, or stewing, and also control their portion sizes.

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Can patients with gallstones eat eggs?

In general, whether patients with gallstones can eat eggs depends on the specific stage and severity of their condition. If discomfort or changes in symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. When consuming eggs, monitor your body's response and discontinue immediately if any adverse reactions arise. Avoid oily preparations such as fried or scrambled eggs to reduce strain on the gallbladder. Use minimal oil during cooking and maintain a balanced diet by pairing eggs with vegetables, whole grains, and other healthy foods.

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Is a 3cm gallbladder polyp serious?

In general, a 3 cm gallbladder polyp is considered relatively large. However, its severity depends on the nature of the polyp, clinical symptoms, and risk of complications. Regular monitoring with ultrasound or CT scans is necessary to track changes in the polyp's size and morphology. It is also important to maintain a regular diet, avoid high-fat and high-cholesterol foods, and reduce the burden on the gallbladder.