When I got diagnosed with gallstones in 2021, I was shocked, it really came out of left field. I was in my twenties, just enjoying life, planning things with my husband Peter (we were dating at that time), and finishing my master’s. One September day, I woke up with a huge pain in my stomach, and I was vomiting. In the evening, I ended up in the ER, where they found out that I have gallstones, and what I experienced was a gallbladder attack (biliary colic).
It takes me a few days to recover, get out of the shock, and start thinking. Before I started my master’s, I was working as a gastroenterology nurse, and I took care of many patients who had gallstones. During that time, I was learning a lot about gallstones, explaining to my patients the gallbladder diet, and what they can do to manage their gallstones. All of this knowledge came back, and I started writing down things.
After I wrote down everything I remembered, I started slowly changing my eating habits and lifestyle. Instead of drinking coffee on an empty stomach, I would wait 2 hours after breakfast to drink coffee. I started eating breakfast, and now I can’t imagine starting a day without breakfast. Instead of eating twice a day, I was eating 4 to 5 times a day, in smaller portions. I started eating more fibre, and even started exercising. It was a complete lifestyle switch, and it took me some time to get my gallstones under control.
Today, I still have my gallbladder, and I do not remember the last time I had any pain. The lifestyle switch, learning and finding out which foods are good for me, helps me save my gallbladder. Sometimes it is possible to save your gallbladder, and it requires lots of dedication and patience. Gallstones do not form overnight, and learning how to manage them will not happen overnight.
Managing your gallstones is not just about eating low fat foods. It is a complete lifestyle adjustment, from how to eat, when to eat, what to eat, and what you can do in between meals to support your gallbladder. There are a lot of tiny things that you do not even think are relevant that can help you (like skipping carbonated drinks, or how clothes can assist you).
I created a gallbladder diet program, where together we will cover everything you need to know about the gallbladder diet, what lifestyle changes you can make, and how to implement them. We will work together with your schedule to create a perfect plan to manage your gallstones, and what to do in case of a gallbladder attack. After you finish my program, you will know how to manage your gallstones, and maybe have a chance to save your gallbladder or live without pain until it is time for your surgery.
Medical Disclaimer: I am a gastroenterology nurse, but I am not your medical provider. This post is for informational and educational purposes only and is based on my personal experience and professional background. If you think you are experiencing gallstones or a gallbladder attack, please consult with your GP immediately.
