Gallstones form when bile components crystallize and accumulate in the gallbladder, leading to pain, digestive disorders, and affecting daily life. Master. Doctor Nguyen Anh Duy Tung, a specialist in nutrition and dietetics at Tam Anh District 7 General Clinic, highlights that a fruit-rich diet enhances digestive health, improves liver and gallbladder function, and prevents complications from gallstones.

Apples

Apples are rich in soluble fiber, pectin, which can reduce cholesterol in bile, helping prevent gallstone formation. Eating apples also aids digestion. Patients can consume fresh apples or pure juice, limiting added sugar for optimal nutrient absorption.

Pears

Pears contain natural sorbitol, a sugar that stimulates bowel movements, reducing bloating and discomfort, especially for individuals with gallstones obstructing bile flow. The water and soluble fiber in pears help regulate liver and gallbladder activity, promoting the excretion of cholesterol and fats. Their cooling property can soothe burning or tension in the right upper abdomen, common in those with liver and gallbladder diseases.

Oranges, lemons, grapefruits

Oranges, lemons, and grapefruits contain vitamin C and citric acid. These active compounds help lower cholesterol levels in bile, reducing the risk of stone formation and growth, and strengthening gallbladder health. Natural acids can stimulate bile and digestive enzyme secretion, improving fat breakdown and reducing post-meal bloating.

Papaya

The papain enzyme in papaya aids in digesting proteins and fats, easing the burden on both the liver and gallbladder. Papaya is also rich in fiber, preventing constipation and avoiding the risk of bile stasis, which indirectly contributes to gallstone formation.

Avocado

Avocados provide abundant potassium, which helps balance electrolytes, maintain body hydration, and limit dehydration—a factor that promotes bile concentration and creates conditions for gallstone formation. Avocados also contain many unsaturated fats, supporting lipid metabolism and stimulating the liver to produce bile. This fruit is also beneficial for cardiovascular health, boosting overall metabolism.

According to Doctor Duy Tung, some sour fruits like hog plums, pineapples, and green mangoes, while rich in vitamin C, are highly acidic. They can irritate the stomach and increase gallbladder contractions, causing pain during inflammation. Fruits rich in natural sugars such as lychee, longan, jackfruit, and cherry, if consumed excessively, can lead to lipid metabolism disorders, indirectly affecting stone formation. Prioritize fresh fruits, and limit dried fruits or jams due to their high sugar content and low water.

If symptoms like biliary colic, bloating, abdominal distension, or digestive disorders appear, patients should seek medical examination.

Quoc An