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Routine Care & WellnessGallbladder diseaseThe gallbladder is a small pear-shaped organ located in the right upper abdomen, nestled in the lobes of the liver. It functions to store and release bile to help in food digestion. Bile is excreted through small ducts into a part of the small intestine, called the duodenum.Gallstones are usually made from cholesterol or calcium crystals that clump together. The size of the stones varies from small grains to beads to golf-ball size. Many individuals have gallstone without any symptoms (silent stones). It may not be recognized until an X-ray or ultrasound of that area is done. There may be one stone or many stones; sometimes there is gravel (hundreds of tiny pieces).
There is an old saying that describes those likely to have gallbladder disease as – Women between 20 and 60 years of age are twice as likely as men are to develop gallstones. (link gallstones and female hormones). Obesity has also been shown to be a major risk factor. The link between excess weight and gallstones is likely related to increased cholesterol and slowed release of bile from the gallbladder in overweight individuals. How much actual diet plays a role in gallstone formation is not clear, however a link between rapid weight loss diets and increased risk of gallbladder disease has been established.
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