Gallstones are small pebble-like substances that develop in the gall bladder, and they form when the bile that is stored in the gall bladder hardens into pieces of stone-like material. There are many causes of gallstones, including when the bile in one's body contains too much cholesterol or bilirubin.

Gender plays a major role in the development of gallstones, as women are twice as likely as men to develop them. This is due to the hormone estrogen especially that produced during pregnancy and that which comes from birth control pills.

Weight is also often a cause of gallstones, as being even moderately overweight is going to greatly increase your chances of developing the stones.

If you ever develop any gallstones you are going to have to find a method of treatment to relieve your symptoms and get rid of the gallstones. There are quite a few different treatments available, but a gall bladder diet is going to be one of the first and most important things you can do here. This is because diets that are high in fat and cholesterol and low in fiber are going to increase your risk of developing gall stones.

It is therefore important that you follow a strict gall bladder diet, even if you have not yet developed any gall stones. A good gall bladder diet will include lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as whole grain breads and cereals, and plenty of water. You should also make sure to increase your fiber intake, but remember that the more fiber you consume the more water you are going to need to drink as well in order to avoid becoming constipated.

Limiting your fat intake is important part of a healthy gall bladder diet but you should not remove all fats from your diet. It is important to include the right type of fats in your diet. Research has shown that a balanced diet that is high in unsaturated fats may reduce the risk in developing gallstones. Omega 3 oils found in flax, hemp and extra virgin olive oil are essential for a health gall bladder diet.

Here is a list of gall bladder friendly foods but remember to start slow and add each food to your diet one at a time. Most people with gall bladder problems respond well to the addition of these foods but individuals can respond differently to the addition of new foods in their diet. If a specific food causes any type of pain or cramping stop taking it and after the symptom has subsided start adding new foods to your diet again.

Helpful Foods - fresh organic only and never used dried or powered variety:

Apples, Apricots, Avocadoes, artichoke, Beets, cumbers, coconuts, ginger root, green beans, sweet potatoes, garlic, onions, lemons, tomatoes, grapes, apples, papaya, pears and omega 3 oils,

You should avoid are chocolate, ice cream, eggs, red meat, milk, coffee, nuts, beans, pork, onion, chicken, milk, oranges, grapefruit, corn, hydrogenated oils, saturated fats, fried foods and margarine.

If you are interested in coming up with a gall bladder diet that is designed specifically for you, the first step is going to be to talk with your doctor. You may also want to work with a nutritionist, someone who is educated in this field and will be able to give you the best advice here.

By following a proper diet and living as generally healthy a lifestyle as possible, you will not only prevent gall stones or get rid of those you presently have, but as well will keep you healthier and happier in general.

Always consult your doctor before using this information.

This Article is nutritional in nature and is not to be construed as medical advice.