Support Your Gallbladder!
Enzymes, Fermented Foods & Probiotics for the gallbladder.
Some evidence suggests that probiotics may play a role in reducing the risk of developing gallstones, which are small, hard deposits that can form in the gallbladder. The gallbladder is connected to the liver. Its function is to store and release bile produced by the liver and helps to remove waste and toxins from the body. Bile is a digestive fluid that helps to break down fats in the small intestine. Bile also helps to absorb fat-soluble vitamins and nutrients. An inflamed gallbladder can develop stones, leading to various symptoms, including abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, and vomiting. In severe cases, the gallbladder may need to be surgically removed.
Probiotics may help improve the balance of gut bacteria, which can influence the production and secretion of bile acids. Bile acids are important for digesting fats and cholesterol, and their production and secretion imbalances have been linked to the development of gallstones.
In particular, some research suggests that certain strains of probiotics, such as Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium lactis, may help reduce the formation of cholesterol crystals, a precursor to gallstones. These are very common probiotics available in most probiotic formulations and fermented foods.
Additionally, probiotics may help reduce inflammation in the body, which is another risk factor for gallstones. Inflammation can cause damage to the gallbladder and lead to the formation of gallstones.
It's important to note that while evidence suggests that probiotics may help reduce the risk of gallstones, more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits and the most effective strains and dosages for this purpose. However, most probiotics must be added daily to impact the body. Additionally, probiotics should not be used as a sole treatment for gallstones or any other medical condition without consulting a healthcare provider.
Enzymes
Several enzymes may be beneficial for supporting the health of the gallbladder, an important organ involved in the digestion and metabolism of fats. Here are a few examples:
Amylase is an enzyme produced by the pancreas that helps to break down carbohydrates in the small intestine. While it does not directly affect the gallbladder's function, it is an important digestive enzyme that works with lipase to support overall digestive health.
Bromelain, a proteolytic enzyme, is found in pineapple and has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. It may help reduce gallbladder inflammation and support overall digestive health. While microbes do not produce bromelain, some microbial strains have been studied for their potential to produce other types of proteolytic enzymes. For example, some bacterial strains, such as Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus licheniformis, are known to produce proteases.
Lipase helps to break down fats in the small intestine, making them easier to digest and absorb. The pancreas produces lipase, which is also available in supplemental form. Some studies suggest that certain microbial species, such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, may regulate pancreatic lipase activity and improve lipid metabolism in the body. However, more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between gut microbes and pancreatic lipase activity.
Ox bile: This is not an enzyme per se, but it is a supplement that contains bile acids, which are important for the digestion and absorption of fats. It may be particularly helpful for people who have had their gallbladder removed and are experiencing difficulty digesting fats.
Papain, another proteolytic enzyme derived from papaya, has been shown to aid in the digestion of proteins. It may also help to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract. Other microbial strains studied for their protease-producing capabilities include Aspergillus oryzae, Aspergillus niger, Bacillus licheniformis, and Bacillus subtilis. These strains have been used in various applications, such as in the production of cheese, soy sauce, and other fermented foods.
Protease is an enzyme that breaks down proteins. Like amylase, it does not directly affect the gallbladder's function, but it is an important digestive enzyme that supports overall digestive health.
It's important to note that while these enzymes may be helpful for supporting the health of the gallbladder, they should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider and as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes dietary and lifestyle modifications. Additionally, if you have a medical condition affecting your gallbladder, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate course of treatment.
The enzymes that benefit the gallbladder are primarily produced by the pancreas, an important digestive organ near the gallbladder. However, certain microbes in the gut may also play a role in the production and regulation of these enzymes.
For example, some research suggests that certain strains of probiotics, such as Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium lactis, may help support the production of digestive enzymes, including lipase, which is important for the digestion of fats. Additionally, some strains of probiotics have been shown to help reduce inflammation in the gut, which may be beneficial for supporting overall digestive health.
It's important to note that the specific strains of probiotics most beneficial for the gallbladder may vary depending on the individual and the underlying condition being treated. Additionally, more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms by which probiotics and other gut microbes may support the health of the gallbladder and digestive system. If you are considering using probiotics or other supplements to support your digestive health, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate approach for your individual needs.
Probiotics
To support a healthy gallbladder, daily supplementation with live probiotics can be done. It is best to find a live active blend of microbes. Many of these above microbes are available in fermented foods containing live active microbes. Supplements containing probiotics are often freeze-dried. Freeze-drying kills over 90% of the microbes. It is best to avoid them. Find a mixed liquid probiotic for the most viable product.
Look for the following probiotic microbes to support a healthy gallbladder: Bacillus subtilis, Bifidobacterium lactis, Bacillus licheniformis, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, and Saccharomyces boulardii.
Fermented Foods
The following fermented foods contain many probiotic microbes that benefit the gut. These are best consumed daily as part of a healthy diet.
Cheese: Certain types of cheese, such as cottage, gouda, and cheddar, may contain Bifidobacterium lactis, Lactobacillus acidophilus, and Lactobacillus rhamnosus.
Kefir: Kefir is a fermented milk drink that contains a variety of beneficial bacteria and yeasts, including Bifidobacterium bifidum, Bifidobacterium lactis, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Saccharomyces cerevisiae.
Kimchi: Kimchi is a Korean fermented vegetable dish that typically contains a variety of probiotic strains, including Lactobacillus acidophilus
and Lactobacillus rhamnosus.
Fermented vegetables: Certain fermented vegetables, such as sauerkraut and pickles, may contain Bifidobacterium bifidum, Bifidobacterium lactis, Lactobacillus acidophilus, as well as other probiotic strains.
Miso: Miso is a traditional Japanese seasoning made from fermented soybeans and contains various strains of beneficial bacteria and yeasts, including Bifidobacterium bifidum and Saccharomyces boulardii
Sauerkraut: Sauerkraut is a fermented cabbage dish containing various strains of probiotics, including Lactobacillus rhamnosus.
Sourdough bread: Sourdough bread is made through a fermentation process involving naturally occurring yeasts and bacteria, which may benefit gut health.
Tempeh: Tempeh is a fermented soybean product that contains the beneficial Bifidobacterium bifidum, the yeast Rhizopus oligosporus.
Yogurt (Real Fermented): Many types of yogurt contain Bifidobacterium bifidum, Bifidobacterium lactis, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, and other probiotic strains.
Resources
Ianiro G, Pecere S, Giorgio V, Gasbarrini A, Cammarota G. Digestive Enzyme Supplementation in Gastrointestinal Diseases. Curr Drug Metab. 2016;17(2):187-93. doi: 10.2174/138920021702160114150137. PMID: 26806042; PMCID: PMC4923703. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4923703/
Jones MW, Small K, Kashyap S, et al. Physiology, Gallbladder. [Updated 2022 May 8]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482488/
Ming-Lun Han, Ming-Hsien Lee, Wei-Jei Lee, Shu-Chun Chen, Owaid M. Almalki, Jung-Chien Chen, Chun-Chi Wu. Probiotics for gallstone prevention in patients with bariatric surgery: A prospective randomized trial. Asian Journal of Surgery. Volume 45, Issue 12, 2022. Pages 2664-2669, ISSN 1015-9584. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.asjsur.2022.01.120.
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