Expert: Dr. Brendon J. O`Brien, D.C. - 2/10/2005

Question
Dr O'Brien , my wife has a small quantity of gall stones and the western response is to remove the gall baldder. The surgeon says that removing the gall bladder will not effect her lifestyle significantly, however I believe that the gall bladder represents much more than just the physical. What would removing the gall bladder signify in eastern terms of energy and wellbeing represent? Many thanks, Maurice.

Answer
Hello Maurice,

   Depending on the size of the gall stones you may or may not have to remove the gall bladder.  I would suggest another exam by a independant doctor for another opinion.  If the stones are small there is a chance she can flush them out!  Natural way is:  DO NOT EAT ANY FAT FOR ONE WEEK!  The gall bladder constricts when fat moves into the small intestine from the stomach.  So the only source of food for the week should be rice and nothing else on it.  At the end of the week have a meal high in fat, this will cause extreme contraction of the gall bladder which may push the stones out.

   But first get a second opinion to make sure the gall bladder is not calcified, and size of the stones which will determine if they can pass!

Thank you for your question,

Dr. Brendon O'Brien D.C.