What You Can Eat After Gallbladder Surgery
June 03, 2025
If you're suffering from gallstones, gallbladder removal surgery is the best way to stop them for good. Removing the gallbladder can help treat other problems that come with gallstones, like pain and swelling. And minimally invasive robotic surgery can make recovery from gallbladder surgery much faster and more comfortable.
However, after removal, your body will take time to adjust. While you may have trouble digesting certain foods, your diet can help. But what exactly should you eat after gallbladder surgery?
Our expert Jean B. Guerrier, M.D., a general and robotic bariatric surgeon at Palisades Medical Center and Hackensack University Medical Center, explains everything you need to know.
Why Should You Change Your Diet After Gallbladder Surgery?
Your liver produces bile, a fluid that helps break down food. Your gallbladder makes bile stronger by removing water from it, and it releases bile when your body needs it.
Once your gallbladder is gone, more bile will flow into your digestive system. This can cause symptoms like bloating or diarrhea, but your body will adjust in time.
"Proper diet will make the adjustment process more pleasant," says Dr. Guerrier, "but it won't speed up recovery."
Foods to Avoid After Gallbladder Removal
Your diet is the best tool to prevent discomfort and digestive symptoms after gallbladder surgery.
Dr. Guerrier suggests avoiding any foods or drinks that will irritate the GI tract including:
- Alcohol
- Spicy foods
- Acidic food, such as tomatoes
- Carbonated beverages
Limiting fat is important, too. "Don't eat anything too greasy or fried. Don't use butter, and try to consume less than 30 grams of fat per day for the first two to three weeks after surgery," Dr. Guerrier says.
These are temporary restrictions. Most people can return to a regular diet about a month after surgery. However, Dr. Guerrier warns, "Go back slowly. Take it day by day."
Foods to Eat After Gallbladder Removal
You may not have much appetite in the first few days after surgery. Dr. Guerrier says this is normal, but it's important to stay hydrated during this time.
While water is good, you also need electrolytes. Gatorade and fruit juice have electrolytes, but drink these in small amounts because they tend to be high in sugar.
When you begin to feel hungry, you can have:
- Fruits
- Veggies
- Fish
- Chicken without the skin, preferably grilled
While beans are a good source of fiber and protein, Dr. Guerrier advises patients to be careful how much they consume in the first few weeks after surgery since beans contain some fat. If you do eat beans, choose low-fat options, such as black or pinto beans.
Eating several small meals throughout the day will help prevent overwhelming your system. Gallbladder surgery recovery is a gradual process that takes about three to four weeks.
For some people, the post-surgery diet may even help you lose extra weight. Dr. Guerrier points out, "It is healthier than most people's typical diet, so you may opt to keep it up after you've recovered."
Next Steps & Resources:
- Meet our source: Jean B. Guerrier, M.D.
- Schedule a consultation with a surgeon near you, or call 800-822-8905.
- Learn more about surgical services at Hackensack Meridian Health.
- Learn about robotic surgery at Hackensack Meridian Health.
The material provided through HealthU is intended to be used as general information only and should not replace the advice of your physician. Always consult your physician for individual care.
