The Care and Keeping of Your Gallbladder

In my practice, I see a lot of patients who present with the signs and symptoms of a sluggish gallbladder. I actually love this finding because Chinese Medicine so eloquently addresses both the physical and emotional problems that arise with an unhappy gallbladder.

Physiologically speaking, the gallbladder is an amazing little organ that basically helps us digest fatty foods. Even if you are eating healthy fats (like avocado, eggs, nuts, fish, certain oils), your gallbladder is still working hard to break down nutrients for us!

From a Chinese Medicine standpoint, the gallbladder does even more than just aid in healthy digestion. It helps us sort our way out of repressed anger. This can be huge for a lot of us who are feeling bogged down with the stresses of life. A healthy, smooth flowing gallbladder system helps us manage stress in a way that doesn't create resentment.

What does all this mean for you? Well, you want to keep that little guy happy! Why not give your gallbladder some extra love and care? Here are 3 of my favorite ways to do so:

1. Movement! Specifically, rotation and side stretching. In Chinese Medicine, the Shaoyang meridian of the gallbladder governs the movement of rotation. This means that the gallbladder system benefits from any

movement that incorporates a rotation or stretch of the side of the body, specifically the rib cage; think Side Angle Stretch, Triangle Pose and Bharadvaja's Twist. This movement allows the Qi (or energy) of the gallbladder to spread, dissolving stagnation and improving blood flow. You may notice feeling more invigorated and light hearted after stretching and rotating your rib cage.

Side Angle Stretch

2. A wonderful remedy for someone who needs to flush their gallbladder is Triphala powder. It is an Ayurvedic herb that consists of three different fruits; Indian Gooseberry, Bibhitaki and Haritaki. Triphala powder is used for a myriad of things, including inflammatory conditions. It has a number of antioxidants that ultimately help restore cell damage by fighting free radicals. In terms of the gallbladder, it helps to move sludge (cholesterol, calcium, bilirubin) out of the organ in a relatively safe and painless way. In this way, it can act as a laxative and can, therefore, ease constipation, which often accompanies poorly functioning gallbladders. In my practice, patients can expect to receive my Triphala powder regimen (complete with dosing instructions specific to that patient) when their gallbladder symptoms have persisted for some time. You can ask your wholistic healthcare practitioner if Triphala is something you need.

Triphala powder

3. Finally, a bit of food therapy for your thoughts. The more fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains and lean meats (namely poultry and fish) you eat, the happier your gallbladder will be. Besides a healthy diet, things I usually consider incorporating into a patient's daily habits are:

Turmeric (or Yu Jin, as we call it in Chinese Medicine) for its anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to travel directly to the gallbladder system. In a clinical setting, I usually mix this herb with other herbs in a formula to address each individual patient and their specific needs. However, cooking with or taking turmeric alone will still benefit the gallbladder.

Apple Cider Vinegar has had an array of coverage in the health world. With a general lack of studies available, I tend to err on the side of what I've seen work from my own personal use and from client use. Its anti-inflammatory properties are unmatched when it comes to finding effective home remedies. I use apple cider vinegar in many cases involving the digestive system in general. Take anywhere from 1/2 tsp to 2 tbsps mixed into a glass of water. Begin with a small amount of vinegar and increase the amount over a week or two weeks.

Apple Cider Vinegar with the 'Mother'

Lastly, it is worth your while to take a look at your magnesium levels. A lack thereof has been shown to contribute to the formation of gallstones. Having adequate levels assists in emptying your gallbladder at a normal rate, so the build up of unwanted cholesterol, calcium and bilirubin in the gallbladder is avoided. I usually recommend a magnesium powder dissolved in some hot water before bed and drunk as a tea, as it is also considered to be a restful sleep aid (there is a wonderful berry flavor available on-line that I favor).

As with all health related information on this blog, you should consult your personal healthcare provider before beginning any new supplement or regimen. Here's to taking care of and protecting that cute little organ that is always working for us.

Happy gallbladder, happy life!