A Comprehensive Functional Medicine Guide to Gallstones Self-Care

Functional Medicine For Gallstones Self-Care

Written by Jennifer Smith, Natural Medicine Practitioner and Certified in Holistic Nutrition

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In this article, we will explore gallstones self-care and the functional medicine approach to managing gallbladder health, including symptoms of poor gallbladder function, the role of functional lab tests, supplements, and the benefits of pro-metabolic eating for gallstones.

Gallstones, or cholelithiasis, are solid deposits that form within the gallbladder, a small organ located beneath the liver responsible for storing bile. Bile is a digestive fluid produced by the liver that helps break down fats. Gallstones can range in size from tiny grains to larger masses and can be composed of various substances, including cholesterol and bilirubin. Gallstones form when bile becomes thickened and supersaturated with substances like cholesterol, bilirubin, or bile salts.

Normally, bile aids in the digestion of fats, but when its composition becomes too thick and sticky to flow, these substances can begin to crystallize. Over time, these crystals gradually grow into solid stones. Factors contributing to this thickening and supersaturation include slow bile movement, excessive cholesterol or bilirubin production, and insufficient bile salts. This altered bile consistency hinders its free flow, increasing the likelihood of stone formation and potentially causing blockages or inflammation in the biliary tract. 

Symptoms of Poor Gallbladder Function

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Poor gallbladder function can lead to a variety of symptoms, particularly related to the inability to digest fats properly. Common symptoms include:

  • Abdominal Pain: Often located in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen, this pain can be severe and may radiate to the upper back between the shoulder blades, to the shoulder or even to the upper left quadrant in the pancreas.
  • Nausea and Vomiting: These symptoms often accompany gallbladder attacks, especially after consuming fatty meals.
  • Bloating and Gas: Difficulty digesting fats can lead to excessive gas and bloating.
  • Indigestion: A general feeling of discomfort and fullness after eating.
  • Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes, indicating a possible bile duct blockage.
  • Light-Clay to Orange Colored Stools: This can occur when bile flow is obstructed or when bile is thick and sticky.
  • Chronic Diarrhea: Continuous diarrhea can be a symptom of poor bile production or flow, affecting fat digestion and leading to irritation in the digestive tract.

The Essential Role of Bile

Bile, produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder, plays a crucial role in both fat digestion and detoxification. When you eat, bile is released into the small intestine, where it emulsifies fats, breaking them down into smaller droplets. This process increases the surface area for digestive enzymes to act on, making fat digestion and nutrient absorption more efficient.

In addition to its role in fat digestion, bile is essential for detoxification. The liver uses bile to expel various waste products, including bilirubin, excess cholesterol, and fat-soluble toxins. These substances are incorporated into bile, which then transports them to the intestines for elimination from the body. By facilitating the removal of these toxins, bile helps maintain metabolic balance and overall health.

Functional Lab Tests for Gallbladder Health

Functional medicine emphasizes understanding the root causes of health issues through comprehensive testing. For gallbladder health, both routine and specialty lab tests can provide valuable insights:

  • Liver Function Tests (LFTs): These tests assess liver enzymes to determine whether bile flow is obstructed or impaired.
  • Complete Blood Count (CBC): A CBC can detect infections or inflammation by checking white blood cell levels.
  • Serum Bilirubin Test or Urinalysis Test: Elevated bilirubin levels can suggest bile duct blockages or gallstones.
  • Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP): This test measures various substances in the blood, including electrolytes, glucose, and kidney function, which can provide insights into overall metabolic health and potential imbalances affecting the gallbladder.

You can order your own tests here or schedule a functional lab analysis consultation here. 

Functional Supplements for Gallbladder Health

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Functional medicine practitioners often recommend supplements to support gallbladder health, whether you have a gallbladder or not, and for those struggling with gallstones:

  • Milk Thistle: Known for its liver-supporting properties, milk thistle can help improve bile flow and reduce inflammation.
  • Dandelion Root: This herb supports liver and gallbladder function by promoting bile production.
  • Artichoke Extract: Artichoke has been shown to stimulate bile production and improve digestion.
  • Digestive Enzymes: These can aid in the digestion of fats, especially for those without a gallbladder.
  • Choline: An essential nutrient that supports fat metabolism and aids in the production of healthy bile, making it crucial for gallbladder health.
  • Digestive Bitters: A blend of herbal extracts that stimulates digestive secretions, including bile production, helping to improve fat digestion and overall gallbladder function.
  • Ox Bile Supplements: These can be particularly beneficial for individuals who have had their gallbladder removed, as they help in the digestion of fats.
  • Coffee Enemas: Often used to stimulate bile flow, coffee enemas can support liver detoxification and promote gallbladder health when incorporated into a well-rounded care plan.
  • Malic Acid: Helps dilate and increase the flexibility of the biliary pathways, facilitating smoother bile flow and reducing the risk of stone formation.
  • Chanca Piedra: Known for its ability to break down and facilitate the passage of gallstones, chanca piedra is a valuable herb in supporting gallbladder health.

Many of these supplements play an integral role in gallstones self-care, helping to prevent and manage gallstone formation naturally. You can purchase professional quality functional medicine supplements in our Fullscript online dispensary. 

Pro-Metabolic Eating and Gallstones Self-Care

Pro-metabolic eating focuses on nourishing the body with nutrient-dense, easy-to-digest foods that support metabolic health. This approach can be particularly beneficial for those with gallbladder issues:

  • Nutrient-Dense Foods: Emphasize whole foods rich in vitamins and minerals, such as fruits, well cooked root and "fruit" vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats like coconut oil and butter.
  • Easy-to-Digest Foods: Choose foods that are gentle on the digestive system, such as well cooked vegetables, baked and sautéed fruits such as pear or apple, bone broth, white rice, potatoes and fermented foods like traditionally made sourdough bread.
  • Balanced Meals: Ensure each meal contains a balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats to support stable blood sugar levels and optimal digestion.
  • Avoid Processed Foods: Minimize the intake of processed and refined foods, which can exacerbate gallbladder issues.
  • Hydration: Drink plenty of water to support digestion and bile production.

By adopting these pro-metabolic eating habits, you are actively engaging in gallstones self-care, promoting better digestive and overall health.

Learn More About Our Functional Medicine Services

At Fx Remedies Virtual Care, we specialize in helping individuals improve their gallbladder function and overall digestive health through personalized functional medicine approaches. If you’re experiencing symptoms of poor gallbladder function or want to optimize your digestive health, we invite you to explore our services. Our comprehensive assessments, functional lab tests, and tailored wellness plans are designed to address the root causes of your health concerns and support your journey back to wellness.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you achieve optimal gallbladder health and improve your quality of life.

In conclusion, functional medicine offers a holistic approach to managing gallstones and gallbladder health. By understanding the symptoms of poor gallbladder function, utilizing comprehensive lab tests, incorporating functional supplements, and adopting a pro-metabolic eating plan, individuals can take proactive steps to improve their digestive health and overall well-being.

Written and Reviewed By:

Jennifer Smith, BA, NMP, CHN, FBCC

Jennifer Smith is a Natural Medicine Practitioner and Holistic Nutrition Practitioner. She has a Bachelor's degree in Christian Counseling. She has completed advanced training in Functional Nutrition, Functional Medicine, Natural Health Consultant diploma, Biblical natural medicine, and Biblical Eating and Clinical Nutrition. Jennifer has a Functional Medicine virtual clinic in Naples, FL called Fx Remedies Virtual Care. 

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