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Natural Remedies for Gallbladder Problems

Improving Gallbladder and Liver Health

© Tammie Burak

Gallbladder surgery is becoming a more common-place medical procedure in North America. Some people have had success treating gallbladder problems with natural medicine.

The gallbladder is a small organ which sits beneath the liver. The gallbladder acts as a reservoir for bile, which is important in the digestion of fats.

Gall Stones and Inflammation

Problems with the gall bladder include the production of gallstones, infection, and inflammation of the gallbladder. Gall stones, formed by the crystallization of cholesterol in combination with bile, may block the bile passage. A blocked bile duct can cause nausea and vomiting with severe pain in the upper right part of the abdomen. Inflammation of the gallbladder demands immediate medical attention, since it is potentially life-threatening.

Improving the Health of the Liver and Gallbladder

The health of the liver and colon are important to the problem-free functioning of the gallbladder. The following points apply in an effort to improve the health and functioning of these important organs.

1. Avoid over-eating. Over-eating leads to obesity and taxes the digestive system. Obesity is linked to gall-bladder problems.

2. Eat more raw fruits and vegetables. The enzymes in raw foods aid in digestion, easing the effort of the organs involved in the digestive processes.

3. Steer clear of processed fatty foods. Gall bladder attacks sometimes follow the ingestion of fried, high-fat foods. A diet high in processed fats taxes the liver and gallbladder, causing them to work harder. The diet should include less than 30% of its calories from fats. Unrefined fats which occur naturally in foods such as avocadoes and raw nuts are the best source of fats.

4. Steam foods rather than frying them. Try using soy sauce or Bragg Liquid Aminos to “saute” foods like onions and garlic, rather than frying in butter, margarine, or vegetable oil. When you do fry, use more heat-tolerant oils like coconut, grapeseed or virgin olive oil. Use these oils sparingly.

5. Consume foods that will help to cleanse the liver. Raw apple juice, pear juice, and beet juice can be beneficial in cleansing the liver, helping to restore its natural function. Use organic fruit and beets, if possible. These can be mixed together for a delicious, refreshing drink.

Gallstone Flush

Three tablespoons of olive oil with the juice of one lemon taken before bedtime and again upon rising can cause softened gallstones to pass in the stool (See Prescription for Nutritional Healing, by James Balch, M.D., and Phyllis Balch, C.N.C; Avery Publishing Group Inc., Garden City Park, New York; 1990.)

More Resources

Additional information about the natural treatment of problems associated with the gallbladder can be obtained from Prescription for Nutritional Healing, by James Balch, M.D., and Phyllis Balch, C.N.C; Avery Publishing Group Inc., Garden City Park, New York; 1990.

Disclaimer: This article is for your information only. It is not intended to take the place of professional medical advice or care. Please consult a qualified physician with your health concerns.


The copyright of the article Natural Remedies for Gallbladder Problems in Natural Medicine is owned by Tammie Burak. Permission to republish Natural Remedies for Gallbladder Problems in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.



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