The gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped organ located beneath the liver. Its primary function is to store and release bile—a greenish fluid essential for the digestion of dietary fats.

Although small, the gallbladder plays a significant role in the digestive system and can be affected by several medical conditions. The most common of these is gallstone disease. Other conditions include acute cholecystitis, gallstone pancreatitis, and, in rare cases, gallbladder cancer.

When the gallbladder is compromised, it can cause pain that radiates to other parts of the body, such as the back or chest. Additional symptoms may include fever, itching, fatigue, bloating, and nausea.

In many cases, treatment involves complete removal of the gallbladder (cholecystectomy), which is considered a safe and routine procedure. Since the gallbladder is not an essential organ, most individuals resume normal daily activities after recovery. According to the Mayo Clinic, temporary side effects following surgery may include diarrhea—due to bile flowing directly into the intestines—and bloating.

Although complications are uncommon, they can occur. These may include bleeding, bile duct injury, bile leakage, deep vein thrombosis, or injuries to surrounding organs and blood vessels.

Post-Surgical Dietary Recommendations

Patients are generally advised to avoid greasy and high-fat foods after surgery. The dietary adjustments often lead to weight loss in many individuals.

During the first few days post-surgery, physicians recommend consuming clear liquids such as broth, gelatin, and other easily digestible foods. Solid foods should be reintroduced gradually and in small portions.

A recommended post-operative diet includes low-fat foods such as beans, oatmeal, whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and fat-free dairy products. Within several days, patients may begin incorporating high-fiber foods like prunes, oat bran, chickpeas, beets, and okra. Foods rich in soluble fiber—such as wheat germ, legumes, carrots, nuts, potatoes, and spinach—are also beneficial.

Foods to avoid include those high in fat, such as lard, butter, bacon fat, hot dogs, salami, pork, and processed baked goods. Limiting highly sweetened foods and caffeine is also recommended.

Most individuals are able to return to work and normal activities within two to four weeks following gallbladder removal.

Potential Long-Term Conditions After Gallbladder Removal

Reflux Gastritis
After the gallbladder is removed, bile becomes less concentrated. Consuming heavy or high-fat meals may trigger bloating, diarrhea, or bile reflux, which can lead to reflux gastritis.

Colon Cancer Risk
Gallbladder removal may increase levels of secondary bile acids, which can irritate the colon. Research suggests a slightly elevated risk of colon cancer in individuals without a gallbladder, although the overall risk remains low. For this reason, surgery is typically recommended only when necessary.

Common Bile Duct Stones
Without a gallbladder to store bile, the common bile duct may become distended or pressurized. Over time, stagnant bile can contribute to the formation of bile duct stones.