When we consume a diet that is high in unhealthy fats and processed foods, and are exposed to toxins from the environment, the liver and the gallbladder become overworked which can result in a toxic gut. Too much fat and not enough fiber in our diets puts a lot of pressure on these organs which can lead to gallbladder disease, which is a common symptom of a toxic gut.
The gallbladder serves as a storage pouch for bile, which is a cholesterol-rich liquid produced by the liver and is needed for the digestion of fats. When we eat, the gallbladder contracts and squirts bile into the small intestine to aid digestion. If the gallbladder has been removed, the bile continuously trickles into the digestive system.
When we eat too many hydrogenated fats, bile is not secreted optimally which puts stress on the small intestine to break down the fats and toxins.
This stress on the small intestine causes the tight junctions, which keep the barrier of the intestine intact, to open up allowing fats into the bloodstream, causing inflammation and toxicity in the digestive system and throughout the body.
Obesity, oral contraceptives, constipation or a sluggish bowel, rapid weight loss, food allergies, insufficient intake of dietary fiber, and a high sugar intake can contribute to liver and gallbladder disease.
When the bile becomes oversaturated with cholesterol from the fats in our diet’s gallstones start to form and these get deposited in the gallbladder. Gallstones, accompanied with inflammation, can prevent the gallbladder from functioning properly.
Symptoms of gallbladder disease include nausea, gas, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort after eating.
If the gallstones move or get trapped in the ducts you could experience pain in the middle or upper abdomen as well as pain that radiates from middle of the back and into the right shoulder. If you do experience any of these symptoms you would need to seek medical help immediately.
Green vegetables and fruits are best for this gut type. These include:
- Broccoli
- Brussels sprouts
- Artichokes
- Watercress
- Spinach or Swiss chard
- Celery
- Asparagus
- Green apples
- Leafy greens – lettuce, rocket, micro herbs
- Cucumber
This gut type will also benefit from lean cuts of organic proteins as well as sour foods such as kimchi, natural yoghurt, kefir, and sauerkraut. They should eat lots of their vegetables raw. Sprouted vegetables and seeds are also easier to digest and help to reduce inflammation so are good to be included in their diets. They also need to make sure they are getting enough fiber in their diets. Fats can be consumed, but in moderation – the quantity and quality of the fats consumed are especially important for this gut type.
Foods to be avoided include:
- Fried foods
- Hydrogenated oils and trans fats
- Non-organic and GMO foods
- Too much cream, butter, animal fat
- Refined carbohydrates and sugar
Supplements that benefit this gut type include ox bile, milk thistle, dandelion, nettle, artichoke, digestive enzymes with lipase, and inulin fiber.
Listen to my interview with Brad Kirsten from Radio Cape Pulpit on 29 February 2024 to learn more. Listen to my next interview on Thursday at 7.45am.