Is it true that one cannot drink alcohol for the rest of their life after gallbladder removal?

It is not absolutely necessary to completely abstain from alcohol for life after cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal), but alcohol consumption should be cautious and moderate. The main function of the gallbladder is to store and concentrate bile; after its removal, bile flows directly into the intestine, which may weaken digestive function, especially reducing tolerance to high-fat foods. Alcohol can irritate the gastrointestinal tract and increase the burden on the liver, possibly causing problems such as indigestion or diarrhea. Moreover, long-term alcohol consumption may further damage liver health and increase the risk of fatty liver or cirrhosis. Therefore, whether to consume alcohol after surgery should be decided based on individual health status and medical advice.

To protect overall health, alcohol should be avoided during the early postoperative period, allowing the body sufficient time to adapt to the changes following gallbladder removal. After recovery stabilizes, if alcohol consumption is desired, low-alcohol beverages should be chosen with strict control of intake, while monitoring the body's response. In daily life, a light diet is recommended and high-fat, high-cholesterol foods should be avoided to reduce the burden on the digestive system. Regular health check-ups to monitor liver function and digestive system health can help detect problems early. Following medical advice and making reasonable lifestyle adjustments can improve quality of life after surgery.