Natural Remedies for Gallstones: Safe Alternatives for Seniors

Gallstone therapy

Hello, my grandmother is over 80 years old.
Recently, she was hospitalized due to abdominal pain and was found to have gallstones.
She underwent endoscopic surgery to remove the larger stones.
Since her discharge, she experiences pain whenever she consumes high-fat foods.
Given her advanced age, the risks associated with surgery are significantly higher, so we are looking for alternative methods to avoid further issues.

I happened to come across a blog by a naturopathic doctor (http://alexwu2300.blogspot.com/2005/10/blog-post.html) that mentions the following excerpt: "Every day, cut two slices of lemon or lime, soak them to make lemon juice, and drink it as a beverage.
When the lemon slices are less sour, dip them in sugar and eat them with the skin.
Over the course of a month, the lemon juice will dissolve gallstones.
As the gallstones dissolve, they will increase in size, causing the gallbladder to enlarge.
My mother’s gallbladder was as large as a fist and caused slight discomfort.
Once the gallbladder is enlarged, choose a day to buy a 500cc bottle of olive oil, divide it into small cups, and mix one-third lemon juice with two-thirds olive oil to make it more palatable.
Consume the 500cc of olive oil within half a day.
Subsequently, within six to eight hours, due to the lubricating effect of the olive oil, the dissolved stones will be expelled through bowel movements, appearing green and floating on the surface of the toilet water.
After the stones are expelled, the swelling in the gallbladder will immediately disappear, and there will be no further issues with gallstones."
I am unsure if this method is worth trying and what other risks may be involved.
Thank you!

PJ, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/04/21

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, Miss.
There is no such treatment method in conventional medicine, so it is not recommended to try it, as it may lead to adverse effects.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Chen Shidian.

Reply Date: 2012/04/21

More Info

When it comes to managing gallstones, especially in elderly patients, the approach must be cautious and well-informed. Your grandmother's situation, having undergone endoscopic surgery to remove larger stones, indicates that she has already experienced some complications related to gallstones. Given her age and the risks associated with further surgical interventions, it is understandable that you are seeking alternative methods to manage her condition.

Firstly, it is important to clarify that while some natural remedies are popular in alternative medicine, there is limited scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness in dissolving gallstones. The method you mentioned, which involves consuming lemon juice and olive oil, is often touted in various blogs and anecdotal reports as a way to dissolve gallstones. However, there is no substantial clinical evidence to support these claims. In fact, the consumption of large amounts of olive oil can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort and may not be suitable for someone with a sensitive digestive system, particularly an elderly person.

The idea that lemon juice can dissolve gallstones is based on the premise that citric acid may help in some metabolic processes, but it does not have a direct effect on existing gallstones. Moreover, the claim that gallstones can be expelled through bowel movements after consuming a mixture of lemon juice and olive oil is largely anecdotal and lacks scientific validation. In reality, gallstones are solid particles that form in the gallbladder, and their composition can vary significantly. Most gallstones are cholesterol stones, and while dietary changes can influence cholesterol levels, they do not dissolve existing stones.

For seniors like your grandmother, the focus should be on dietary management and lifestyle modifications rather than unproven natural remedies. Here are some medically supported recommendations:
1. Dietary Adjustments: Encourage a diet low in saturated fats and high in fiber. Foods rich in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, can help promote healthy digestion and may reduce the risk of gallstone formation. Additionally, incorporating healthy fats, such as those found in fish, nuts, and olive oil, in moderation can be beneficial.

2. Hydration: Ensure she stays well-hydrated. Drinking plenty of water can help maintain healthy bile production and may reduce the risk of gallstone formation.

3. Regular Meals: Skipping meals or fasting can increase the risk of gallstones. Encourage her to eat regular, balanced meals to promote consistent bile flow.

4. Consultation with Healthcare Providers: It is crucial to maintain regular follow-ups with her healthcare provider. If she experiences recurrent pain or other symptoms, further evaluation may be necessary. A healthcare professional can provide personalized advice based on her medical history and current health status.

5. Avoiding High-Fat Foods: Since she experiences pain after consuming high-fat foods, it would be wise to limit these in her diet. Instead, focus on lean proteins and healthy carbohydrates.

In conclusion, while the allure of natural remedies is strong, especially for those seeking to avoid surgery, it is essential to approach such methods with caution. The best course of action for your grandmother would be to adhere to a balanced diet, stay hydrated, and consult with her healthcare provider for tailored advice. If her symptoms persist or worsen, further medical intervention may be necessary, and it is crucial to prioritize her safety and well-being.

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