WARNING: Article contains a graphic image of gallbladder containing gallstones.
The dietary guidelines promoted by USDA the past 50 years or so was a low fat, high carbohydrate diet. We see the results of this advice. Obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and cancer rates are at all time highs. Additionally, gallbladder removal surgery is one of the most common surgeries performed. 700,000 of these surgeries are performed each year in the USA, many unnecessarily. * It is a $14 billion dollar a year surgery. (Figure estimated at $20,000 each.)
Healthy fats are required to empty the gallbladder. Chronically low fat diets are partially responsible for sluggish biliary systems. When the gallbladder becomes sluggish from lack of use, in conjunction with other imbalances, and incomplete emptying, the congested bile may form stones. Overtime, these stones may block bile ducts, irritate tissue and fill up the gallbladder, creating pain and impaired digestion.
The liver creates bile to emulsify fats and stores it in the gallbladder. When fat is eaten, a healthy gallbladder contracts, secreting liquid bile necessary for emulsification. Other organs (pancreas, stomach, mouth) produce lipase, the enzyme needed for the break down of the emulsified fat for absorption in the small intestine. If the gallbladder is removed, the body is unable to completely digest and utilize these fats for health. Proper digestion of fat is absolutely necessary for brain function, healthy cell membranes, communication between nerves and to make hormones. (Essential fatty acids [EFA] are essential because the body cannot produce them and they are required for optimum health.)
It is a shame that many doctors do not educate gallbladder surgery patients about the health consequences for living without gallbladders. Or teach patients how to keep gallbladders and livers functioning properly to PREVENT these problems. Doctors teach that gallbladders are not essential and normal lives can be lived without them. While it is true our bodies do compensate for the lack, it is ignorant to suggest that an optimally healthy life can still be lived without one. It is equally tragic that these same patients are not equipped with alternatives to help them after surgery, or given optional alternatives to try before surgery is attempted.
I begin each day with a hot cup of water to which I squeeze juice from half an organic lemon, which helps get the bile flowing, followed 15 minutes later by digestive enzymes. I then eat my breakfast, an hour later drink KetonX, 2-3 hours later eat the Dough Bite with leafy greens, a little protein and some fat. Three hours later I take the FIXX. If I am able, I add ground flaxseeds, Pink Himalayan salt, chia seeds and cream to this. Three hours later I eat dinner comprised of deep leafy greens, vegetables, protein and additional healthy fats. Before eating fatty foods at any time of day, I like to take more digestive enzymes. This has helped me avoid bloating and nausea and has helped me adjust to the higher fat content in my diet.
If I did not have a gallbladder, I would immediately begin supplementation with ox bile and high dose of lipase. I would add an homeopathic opening the channels program to open all elimination pathways. I would also increase my fiber consumption. A high fiber diet has been shown to reduce the risk for developing gallstones. (Gallstones can still be produced without a gallbladder). Dough Bites contain 18 grams of fiber per serving and are a delicious way for increasing daily fiber in addition to consuming more vegetables. I would also add beets to my diet as well. Beet juice contains a natural source of betaine, which supports healthy fat digestion.
If you need access to high quality digestive aids such as those mentioned above, please call me for an over the phone consultation and recommendation OR fill out this web form.
In conclusion, chronic diseases are increasing. These statistics will continue to rise as long as Americans continue to follow USDA low fat, high carbohydrate food pyramid as their dietary guide. Hundreds of thousands of gallbladder surgeries are performed each year, leaving unequipped patients with a limited ability to emulsify and digest fats. Adding lipase, ox bile and increasing dietary fiber at every meal containing fat is essential for supporting these patients' health. Beginning each day with warm lemon water and appropriate digestive enzymes, can support healthy liver, gallbladder and GI tract function.
Remember, if you have a medical condition, consult a medical doctor for medical advice. This article does not substitute for consultation with your physician or natural health care provider. This article is for educational purposes only and does not attempt to diagnose, treat, prevent or mitigate disease. Before beginning any new exercise or diet program, consult your doctor.
Getting Fit with you,
Dr. Carol ND.
Sources:
http://www.quackwatch.org/04ConsumerEducation/crhsurgery.html
http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2013/06/18/unnecessary-surgery-usa-today-investigation/2435009/
http://www.livestrong.com/article/337229-lipase-fat-digestion/
http://womenshealth.about.com/cs/gallbladder/a/gallstonessymtr_4.htm
http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Laparoscopiccholecystectomy/Pages/Introduction.aspx
accessed 10/24/2015
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