What can be eaten before gallstone surgery?

Before gallbladder stone surgery, it is advisable to consume low-fat liquid foods, soft semi-liquid foods, low-fat high-quality proteins, light vegetables, and low-sugar fruits. Preoperative diets should avoid stimulating gallbladder contraction. If symptoms such as worsening abdominal pain or fever occur, immediate consultation with the hepatobiliary surgery department is necessary.

1. Low-fat liquid foods: Such as rice soup, diluted lotus root starch, strained vegetable juice, etc. These are thin in texture and easily absorbed, requiring minimal bile secretion from the gallbladder, thus reducing its burden. Suitable for consumption 1–2 days before surgery as a transitional diet; avoid greasy broths.

2. Soft semi-liquid foods: Examples include millet porridge, soft noodles, and steamed egg custard. Cooked until tender and easy to digest, these contain small amounts of carbohydrates and protein, providing basic energy without stimulating gallbladder contraction. They can serve as staple foods during the routine preoperative dietary phase.

3. Low-fat high-quality protein: Options include skinless chicken breast mince, fish puree, and silken tofu. Prepared in a soft, finely processed form with low fat content, these help supplement protein to support postoperative recovery. Avoid frying or braising; instead, use cooking methods such as steaming or boiling.

4. Light vegetables: Such as wax gourd (winter melon), pumpkin, and mashed potatoes. Choose vegetables with fine, soft fibers and cook them thoroughly to reduce irritation from coarse fiber on the intestines. Their low-fat nature does not increase gallbladder load and they can be consumed together with liquid or semi-liquid meals.

5. Low-sugar fruits: Such as apple puree, banana, and pear. Process fruits into pureed or small bite-sized pieces, avoiding raw, cold, or high-sugar forms. This allows for vitamin supplementation without stimulating the gallbladder due to digestive demands. Consume in moderation before surgery.

For daily care, maintain regular, small meals and avoid overeating. Chew food slowly and thoroughly during meals. Adjust your diet according to medical instructions before surgery, stay emotionally balanced, and follow doctor’s orders regarding fasting and abstaining from water the night before surgery to prepare adequately for the procedure.