Causes of Gallstones

Gallstones form when bile becomes unbalanced. Normally bile keeps cholesterol and other substances dissolved. When that balance fails, or the gallbladder does not empty well, solid particles can form and grow into stones.

Main causes of cholesterol stones

• Too much cholesterol in bile: the liver releases more than the bile can dissolve
• Too much bilirubin: in some blood and liver conditions, producing pigment stones
• Poor gallbladder emptying: concentrated bile sits and forms crystals

Risk factors

• Being female, especially during pregnancy or with hormone therapy
• Age above 40
• Overweight or obesity
• Rapid weight loss, crash diets or weight-loss surgery
• Family history of gallstones
• Diabetes and high triglycerides
• A diet high in refined food and low in fibre
• Long gaps without eating, or long periods of tube feeding

Medical conditions linked to pigment stones

Conditions that destroy red blood cells faster than normal, such as sickle cell disease and thalassaemia, and liver cirrhosis, raise the risk.

Ayurvedic view

Ayurveda describes stone formation as an aggravation of Kapha and Pitta with impaired digestive fire. This is an interpretive framework, not a proven mechanism, and it does not replace scans and medical advice.

Key point

Most people have several risk factors together. You cannot change age, sex or family history, but weight, diet and activity can be improved safely.

Other contributing factors

Certain medicines, including some hormone therapies and cholesterol-lowering fibrates, can raise the risk. A sedentary lifestyle and rapid weight cycling also add to it. A doctor can review your own list of risks.