What Are Gallstones?
Gallstones are hardened deposits of digestive fluid mainly cholesterol and bile salts that form in the gallbladder. While they may remain silent in many people, they can cause pain, nausea, vomiting, and digestive upset when they block bile flow.
Weight Loss and Gallstones: What’s the Connection?
It may sound ironic, but losing weight too quickly whether through medical weight loss or bariatric surgery can actually increase your risk of developing gallstones.
When your body breaks down fat rapidly, it releases more cholesterol into bile. The gallbladder may also empty less frequently during rapid weight loss, making it easier for crystals to form and harden into stones.
Who Is Most at Risk?
- Individuals losing >1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) per week
- Patients undergoing bariatric procedures such as:
- Gastric sleeve
- Gastric bypass
- Duodenal switch
- Women (especially over age 40)
- Patients with insulin resistance or diabetes
- Those on very low-calorie diets
Gallstones Symptoms to Watch For
If gallstones become problematic, you may experience:
- Sudden pain in the upper right abdomen
- Pain that radiates to your back or right shoulder
- Nausea or vomiting, especially after meals
- Indigestion, bloating, or intolerance to fatty foods
Prevention and Monitoring
At IBI Clinic, we take proactive steps to monitor and prevent gallstones in patients undergoing weight loss:
1. Gradual, Supervised Weight Loss
We aim for 1–2 lbs/week in medical weight loss plans to reduce gallstone risk.
2.Preventive Medications
Some high-risk bariatric patients are prescribed ursodiol, a medication that dissolves cholesterol in bile and lowers the chance of gallstone formation.
3. Routine Ultrasounds
Post-op imaging may be recommended if symptoms arise or for patients with prior gallbladder issues.
4. Dietary Counseling
We guide patients to eat balanced meals with moderate fat intake and, therefore, consistent hydration to keep the gallbladder functioning well.
Treatment Options if Gallstones Develop
If symptomatic gallstones form, treatment may include:
- Medications like ursodiol (for mild cases)
- Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal), which is safe and often done as outpatient surgery
Bottom Line: The Risk of Gallstones After Medical Weight Loss and Bariatric Surgery
Gallstones are a known but manageable risk of medical and surgical weight loss. Early detection, thoughtful prevention, and expert follow-up significantly reduce this risk.
If you’re considering weight loss treatments or are currently in a program don’t hesitate to ask your provider about gallstone prevention. At IBI Clinic, we’re committed to your long-term health and wellness.
Questions or concerns? Contact us at IBI Clinic today.
