Lifestyle Changes to Manage Gallstones

June 10, 2008 - 7:30am

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Lifestyle Changes to Manage Gallstones

by ]]>Editorial Staff and Contributors]]>

The following behaviors may help to manage gallstones:

Achieve and Maintain a Healthful Weight

Maintaining a healthful weight is a key to lowering your risk of future gallstones. If you are overweight, a slow loss of weight is advised because fasting and extreme dieting can lead to gallstones. Ask your healthcare provider for a weight loss plan that will be safe and effective for you. You may also want to ask for a referral to a registered dietitian (RD), who can help you with a weight loss program.

Exercise Regularly

Regular, vigorous exercise may reduce the risk of gallstones. In addition to controlling weight, exercise normalizes blood sugar and insulin levels. When these levels are abnormal, they may contribute to the development of gallstones.

References:

American College of Gastroenterology website. Available at: http://www.gastro.org/ .

American Dietetic Association website. Available at: http://www.eatright.org/cps/rde/xchg/ada/hs.xsl/index.html .

National Institute of Diabetes & Digestive & Kidney Diseases website. Available at: http://www2.niddk.nih.gov/ .

Last reviewed November 2008 by ]]>Daus Mahnke, MD]]>

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.