Benefits of drinking coffee to prevent gallstones
The routine of drinking coffee turns out to give another benefit, namely preventing the formation of gallstones. How much to consume?
Coffee is not only popular because of its flavor and aroma, but benefits for health. From adding energy, easing headaches, fixing the mood, and much more. Well, probably many do not know that coffee drinkers can also prevent gallstones.
Study proves: Coffee can prevent the formation of gallstones
Yes, you are not misread, coffee can lower the risk of gallstone formation. The formed gallstones can accumulate in the gallbladder and block the channels in them. When the condition occurs, the symptoms that can be felt are the right abdominal pain to the liver.
Recent research on 105,000 Danes for 8 years living in southern Scandinavia shows consumption of more than 6 cups of coffee a day will reduce the risk of gallstones as much as 23 percent.
So, what about a person who is a day only drinks 1-2 copies? The study also showed good news, that the consumption of coffee although slightly fixed can decrease the risk of gallstone formation.
Compared with individuals who do not eat coffee at all, one who only drink 1 cup of coffee a day also decreased the risk of gallstone formation as much as 3 percent. While in those who consume 3-6 coffee cups per day, the decline is recorded as much as 17 percent. The findings are expressed in the "Journal of Internal Medicine" which was published last September.
How the Prevent gallstone coffee works
Experts believe that caffeine secreted through the bile fluid reduces the amount of cholesterol found in the bile fluid. This allows a reduced risk of gallstone formation because its formation relies on the balance of cholesterol levels and bile acids.
Also, coffee stimulates muscle contractions that move the contents of food inside the gastrointestinal tract. Because of the way the caffeine works, it is mentioned that there is a possibility that tea and chocolate (which also contains caffeine) can also lower the risk of gallstone formation.
For people who have special conditions that should limit or avoid caffeine, for example, gastric disorders and irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmia), how can I get those benefits?
Other ways to prevent the formation of gallstones
Do not worry, there are other ways to prevent the formation of gallstones, namely:
1. Changing the Diet
Since cholesterol has a role in the formation of gallstones, you need to reduce foods that are high in saturated fats such as:
- Sausage and fatty meat parts
- Butter and lard
- Cream
- Hard textured cheese
- Cakes and biscuits
- Foods containing coconut oil or palm oil
Also, optimize with a balanced nutritious diet, by increasing the consumption of vegetables and fruits at least five portions in a day, as well as whole grain.
There is also scientific evidence that the consumption of peanuts and cashew nuts can reduce the formation of gallstones.
Also, avoid excessive alcohol consumption. Limit only 14 units per week (1 unit equivalent to 10 ml).
2. Reduce weight
Having excess body weight, especially if already obese, will increase the amount of cholesterol in the bile fluid. This condition will automatically increase the risk of gallstone formation.
When you have excess weight, gradually lower it, not drastically. Too low-calorie consumption will interfere with the chemical process of bile fluid, so it can increase the likelihood of gallstone formation.
With a coffee of 1-2 glasses per day, you can already feel the benefits of preventing the formation of gallstones. Also, pay attention to the daily diet and optimize with regular exercise, so that the ideal body weight and overall health is maintained.