Gallbladder flush

Gallbladder flush is a type of alternative medicine procedure that involves the consumption of a large amount of oil and citrus fruit juice in an attempt to stimulate the gallbladder to release gallstones. The procedure is also known as a gallbladder cleanse or liver flush.

Procedure

The gallbladder flush typically involves fasting for a period of time, followed by the consumption of a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice or grapefruit juice, and sometimes Epsom salt. The procedure is usually performed at home and can last for several hours or even days.

Efficacy and Risks

There is no scientific evidence to support the efficacy of the gallbladder flush. The American Medical Association and the National Institute of Health have both stated that the procedure is not effective and can be potentially harmful. Risks associated with the gallbladder flush include dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and the potential for gallstones to become lodged in the bile duct, which can lead to serious complications such as pancreatitis or cholecystitis.

Criticism

Critics of the gallbladder flush argue that the "stones" expelled during the procedure are not gallstones, but rather soft complexes of mineral, olive oil and lemon juice created within the digestive tract.

See Also

• Alternative medicine
• Gallstones
• Gallbladder disease
• Cholecystectomy

References

<references />

   This article is a medical stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding it!