Medications that bind bile acids (prescribed by a doctor)
2. Increased Risk of Fatty Liver Disease
What happens: The constant dripping of bile into the intestine may alter fat metabolism. Some studies suggest a higher risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) after cholecystectomy.
The research: A 2017 study found that people who had their gallbladder removed had a higher incidence of fatty liver compared to those who didn’t.
What helps:
Maintaining a healthy weight
Eating a balanced diet low in saturated fats and added sugars
Regular exercise
Limiting alcohol
3. Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)
What happens: Bile has natural antibacterial properties. When bile flow becomes less regulated, some researchers believe it may contribute to bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine.
Symptoms of SIBO:
Bloating and gas
Abdominal pain
Diarrhea or constipation
