Can skipping breakfast cause gallstones?

Aug 23, 2021 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Mou Dongpo
Introduction
Skipping breakfast increases the risk of gallstones because prolonged fasting prevents timely bile excretion, allowing cholesterol in the bile to crystallize and precipitate, eventually forming stones. Therefore, it is essential to maintain a balanced and regular diet—especially by never skipping breakfast. Ideally, adopt a pattern of smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day, focusing on light, easily digestible foods.

Skipping breakfast increases the risk of gallstone formation. When breakfast is omitted, prolonged fasting delays bile expulsion from the gallbladder, allowing cholesterol in the bile to crystallize and precipitate, ultimately forming gallstones. Therefore, it is essential to maintain a balanced and regular diet—especially by never skipping breakfast. Ideally, adopt a pattern of eating smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day, focusing on light, easily digestible foods. Limit intake of high-fat foods, such as animal fats, fatty meats, and animal skins. Similarly, avoid excessive consumption of high-cholesterol foods—including organ meats (e.g., liver, kidney), egg yolks, and squid. Instead, increase intake of soy-based products and fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins. Alcohol should be avoided entirely, and spicy or irritating foods should be consumed sparingly.