Q Eating fatty food always causes pain in my upper right abdomen. What foods trigger gallstone symptoms?
A High-fat meals cause strong gallbladder contraction, increasing the risk of a gallstone blocking the cystic duct. Pork belly, fried food, butter, and cream are major triggers; small frequent meals and a low-fat diet are the basic management approach.
Detailed Answer
When fat is consumed, the hormone cholecystokinin is released from the small intestine, causing strong gallbladder contraction. When a gallstone is present, this contraction can move the stone to block the cystic duct, causing severe right upper abdominal pain (biliary colic). Not only high-fat and high-cholesterol foods, but also eating a large amount at once stimulates the gallbladder.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
With a low-fat diet as the foundation, combining choleretic and digestive herbal medicine helps reduce the frequency of post-meal pain and maintain smooth bile flow.
Related FAQs
-
Q
Is it realistically possible to manage gallstones without surgery? Can Korean medicine treatment alone be enough?
#Possibility / Realistic Goals
-
Q
Can Korean medicine prevent gallstone recurrence? I heard recurrence can happen even after surgery.
#Possibility / Realistic Goals
-
Q
I heard gallstones can also cause pancreatitis. Can both occur at the same time?
#Comorbidities
-
Q
I was told I have both fatty liver and gallstones. Can both conditions be managed together?
#Comorbidities
-
Q
After meals, my upper right abdomen feels sore and painful. What can I do at home to feel a little better?
#Lifestyle Management