Cholesterol gallstones are among the most common
gastrointestinal disorders in Western societies. Individuals with
gallstones may experience various gastrointestinal symptoms and are also at risk of developing acute or chronic
cholecystitis.
Cholecystectomy is the most frequently recommended conventional treatment for symptomatic
gallstones.
Bile acids (
ursodeoxycholic acid or
chenodeoxycholic acid) are also used in some cases to dissolve radiolucent stones, but these drugs can cause gastrointestinal side effects and there is a high rate of stone recurrence
after treatment is discontinued.
Lithotripsy is used in some cases in conjunction with
ursodeoxycholic acid for patients who have a single symptomatic non-calcified
gallstone. There is evidence that dietary factors influence the risk of developing
cholesterol gallstones. Dietary factors that may increase risk include
cholesterol, saturated fat,
trans fatty acids, refined
sugar, and possibly legumes.
Obesity is also a risk factor for
gallstones. Dietary factors that may prevent the development of
gallstones include polyunsaturated fat, monounsaturated fat, fiber, and
caffeine. Consuming a
vegetarian diet is also associated with decreased risk. In addition, identification and avoidance of allergenic foods frequently relieves symptoms of
gallbladder disease, although it does not dissolve
gallstones. Nutritional supplements that might help prevent
gallstones include
vitamin C, soy
lecithin, and
iron. In addition, a mixture of plant
terpenes (
Rowachol) has been used with some success to dissolve radiolucent
gallstones. The gallbladder flush is a
folk remedy said to promote the passage of
gallstones. While minimal scientific evidence supports the efficacy of this treatment, anecdotal reports suggest the gallbladder flush may be beneficial for some people.