Can people with intrahepatic bile duct stones drink red wine?
Disease description:
I have gallstones, but I haven't had surgery yet—I'm planning to undergo the procedure in a few days. Recently, I've been thinking about drinking sweet potato soup. Doctor, can I drink red wine if I have intrahepatic bile duct stones?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Gao Jun
Patients with intrahepatic bile duct stones should avoid drinking red wine.
This is primarily due to the alcohol content in red wine, especially ethanol, which can potentially damage and irritate the biliary tract and liver. Long-term or excessive alcohol consumption may increase the liver's detoxification burden and stimulate increased bile secretion in the bile ducts, both of which are unfavorable for the recovery from bile duct stones and may even promote further stone formation.
In addition, the alcohol in red wine may also damage the nervous system, impair sleep quality, and cause symptoms such as dizziness and headaches. Excessive red wine consumption can also irritate the gastrointestinal tract, leading to gastric mucosal injury and causing indigestion symptoms including nausea, vomiting, and abdominal bloating and pain.
Besides avoiding alcohol, patients with intrahepatic bile duct stones should pay attention to dietary adjustments, avoid high-fat and high-cholesterol foods, maintain good personal hygiene, and eat regular, balanced meals. Adopting reasonable dietary habits and lifestyle choices can help reduce episodes of intrahepatic bile duct stones and support recovery from the condition.
