Which dietary strategy is recommended after gallbladder removal?

A low-fat diet is recommended initially after gallbladder removal because the gallbladder plays a critical role in storing and concentrating bile, which is necessary for the digestion of fats. When the gallbladder is removed, the body no longer has this reservoir for bile, and bile flows directly from the liver into the intestine, which may not be sufficient to effectively digest high-fat meals right away. Consequently, a low-fat diet can help minimize symptoms such as diarrhea, bloating, and abdominal discomfort that may arise from the inability to digest fats properly in the absence of the gallbladder.

Gradually, most individuals can reintroduce more fats into their diet as their body adapts. However, starting with a low-fat diet helps to ease the transition and allows the digestive system to adjust to the new method of bile delivery and fat digestion.