Gallstones are solid deposits of digestive fluid that can form in your gallbladder. These stones can vary in size, and some people may develop just one gallstone, while others may have multiple.

Gallstones are a common condition and can cause severe pain, bloating, and indigestion. While anyone can develop gallstones, some factors increase your risk of developing them.

Obesity

Obesity is one of the most common risk factors for developing gallstones. It is estimated that people who are overweight or obese are twice as likely to develop gallstones compared to people who have a healthy weight.

Excess body weight can increase the amount of cholesterol in your bile, which can lead to the formation of gallstones.

Gender

Women are more likely to develop gallstones than men. Female hormones like estrogen can increase the amount of cholesterol in bile while decreasing the gallbladder’s ability to empty properly.

This hormonal imbalance can lead to the formation of gallstones. Women who are pregnant or on oral contraceptives are also at an increased risk of developing gallstones.

Age

Gallstones are more common as you get older. The risk of developing gallstones increases with age, with people over the age of 60 being the most susceptible. As you age, your body produces more cholesterol, which can lead to the formation of gallstones.

Diet

The food you eat can also affect your risk of developing gallstones. A diet high in fat and cholesterol can increase the amount of cholesterol in your bile, which can lead to the formation of gallstones.

Eating foods that are high in fiber and low in fat can reduce your risk of developing gallstones.

Family History

If someone in your family has had gallstones, you may be more likely to develop them. A family history of gallstones increases your risk of developing them, possibly due to a genetic predisposition to the condition.

Rapid Weight Loss

Rapid weight loss can increase your risk of developing gallstones. This is because when you lose weight quickly, your liver releases more cholesterol into your bile, which can lead to the formation of gallstones.

Diabetes

People with diabetes are more likely to develop gallstones than people without diabetes. This may be because high blood sugar levels can increase the amount of cholesterol in your bile, leading to the formation of gallstones.

Liver Disease

People with liver disease, including cirrhosis, are at an increased risk of developing gallstones. This may be due to the liver’s decreased ability to produce and excrete bile properly, which can lead to the formation of gallstones.

Ethnicity

South Asian and Native American populations are at an increased risk of developing gallstones. This may be due to genetics and lifestyle factors within these populations.

Medications

Certain medications can increase your risk of developing gallstones. Hormone therapy, including estrogen, can increase your risk, as can medications used to lower cholesterol levels.