11. Soda and Alcohol
Sugar-sweetened beverages like soda contribute to weight gain and diabetes development. In a 13-year follow-up study, high consumption of soft drinks led to increased risk of gallbladder and extrahepatic biliary tract cancers. By contrast, research shows that moderate or periodic alcohol consumption does not have a negative effect on the gallbladder’s ability to empty, and may actually protect against gallstones.
12. Avoid Skipping Meals
For some, fasting or purposely skipping meals feels inescapable due to a busy lifestyle. However, doing so can trigger an attack by decreasing gallbladder motility or contractions. Fewer contractions means the organ does not empty completely, leading to a backup of bile that’s not being used to break down food. Cholesterol increases and, over time, the fats harden into stones.
