Gallstones and Gallbladder Disease - Prevention

Vitamin C. Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) appears to help break cholesterol down in bile. Vitamin C deficiencies have been associated with a higher risk for gallstones. One 2000 study, which confirmed some previous ones, reported that women with high blood levels of ascorbic acid had a lower risk for gallbladder disease than women with low levels.

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Coffee. In one study, men who drank two or more cups of regular coffee daily (either instant, filtered, or espresso) had a 40% lower risk of developing gallbladder disease over ten years than men who did not drink coffee regularly. Those who drank more than four cups had the lowest risk. A more recent study in 2000 did not find any general protective effect, although women with gallstones who drank coffee reported fewer symptoms than those who didn't.

Preventing Gallstones During Weight Loss

Maintaining a normal weight and avoiding rapid weight loss are the keys to reducing the risk of gallstones. Taking the medication ursodiol (also called ursodeoxycholic acid, or Actigall) during weight loss may reduce the risk for people who are very overweight and need to lose weight quickly. This medication is ordinarily used to dissolve existing gallstones. It should be noted, however, that it is very expensive. A promising 2001 study suggested that orlistat (Xenical), a drug for treating obesity, may protect against gallstone formation during weight loss. The drug appears to reduce bile acids and other components involved in gallstone production.

Exercise

Exercising regularly and vigorously may reduce the risk of gallstones and gallbladder disease, even in people who are overweight. Studies are reporting a lower risk for gallstones in both men and women who exercise. Active sports exercise appears to be most protective for both men and women. A 1999 study of women reported that exercise reduced gallstone risk regardless of whether women lost weight or not. Some evidence suggests that that, in addition to controlling weight, exercise helps reduce cholesterol levels in the biliary tract, which could help prevent gallstones.

Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs

Some data had indicated that taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin or ibuprofen, protects against the development of gallstones. Recent studies have been mixed, although a 2001 study reported significant protection against gallstone recurrence in people who took NSAIDs after being treated with lithotripsy.

NOTE: Long-term use of NSAIDS can cause stomach problems, such as ulcers and bleeding, and possible heart problems.In April 2005, the FDA asked drug manufacturers of NSAIDs to include a warning label on theirproduct that alertsusers of an increased risk for cardiovascular events and gastrointestinal bleeding. Talk to your doctor before taking these drugs.