Magnesium For Gallbladder Sludge

Overview

All the french fries and cheese dips we eat contain fats which are usually broken down by a liquid called bile from a small organ known as gallbladder. This organ is a sac like structure located on the right upper part of the abdomen, closely behind the liver. Digestion of fats is mediated by secreting this bile into the small intestine through a connective network (of tubes) called the biliary tree.

If you or anyone around you experience an ache on the upper right abdomen (and sometimes on the right shoulder) along with vomiting, you might have a gall bladder issue. Most cases with biliary sludge are asymptomatic. If the bile builds up in the bladder sac it precipitates the solid components (cholesterol and pigments) down, and this is called biliary sludge. If not treated with either medications or surgery, chronic bile sludge could result in formation of a gallstone (cholelithiasis), or inflammation of the gallbladder (cholescystitis). These complications can result in a gallbladder attack.

Risk factors for developing gallbladder sludge

Dissolving thegallstone is the aim of medical treatment before measures like gallbladder surgery or removal is considered. Stones can be either cholesterol or bilirubin pigment stones. While medications can be given to remove the sludge, it is also important to understand how dietary modifications will help. 

The risk factors for developing gallbladder stones include cholesterol rich diet, rapid weight loss, family history and age greater than 40. People assigned female at birth (AFAB) are usally at a higher risk.¹ Maintaining an active lifestyle, along with eating healthy fats (olive oil, omega 3 rich oils) and foods high in fibre help towards prevention of biliary sludge. Dietary modifications in gallbladder problems are largely unexplored, but these are key to maintenance of gut health both before and after a gallbladder illness.

Apart from the above changes, a key mineral necessary to prevent sludge is Magnesium (Mg).  Magesium is an essential mineral that helps in over 300 reactions in the body. It is regarded as a macronutrient. A number of studies have been conducted that show a positive trend in low dietary magnesium and occurrence of gallstones. 

How does magnesium affect gallbladder sludge?

The proposed mechanism by which magnesium exerts this effect is by reducing the bad cholesterol (triglyceride) and increasing the good cholesterol (HDL) levels. Additionally, it also helps in the release of bile by relaxing the opening of the gall bladder sac, and by releasing an enzyme from the pancreas that dissolves the bile.² Magnesium has an effect of reducing insulin secretion from the pancreas and regulating glucose uptake by cells, which prevents development of metabolic syndrome- a triad of obesity, high cholesterol and high glucose levels.³ This further reduces the chances of developing gallbladder sludge. 

How much magnesium should I take for gallbladder sludge?

Although a recommended dietary allowance (RDA) has not been established specifically for gall bladder disease, it is essential to adhere to the RDA requirements for overall good health. The longest study done over 13 years showed a 28% less risk of developing a symptomatic gallbladder illness in people assigned male at birth (AMAB) with average consumption of 454mg/dl of magnesium.⁴ 

Source: http://www.nap.edu/openbook.php?record_id=5776

NOTE: RDA includes ALL the Mg taken- from diet, supplements as well as medications like Mg antacids.

Which magnesium is best for gallbladder sludge?

Supplements are available in the form of magnesium citrate, sulphate, chloride or oxide. They are sold as gummies, tablets, liquids or powders. Magnesium citrate is commonly found in a variety of flavored powders and is most easily absorbed by the body. Other forms of magnesium are used for conditions like poor sleep quality and to aid in absorption of vitamin D.

There are no studies currently which show a positive relationship between magnesium supplements and gall bladder symptoms. But dietary intake has shown results. It could be that foods rich in magnesium are also rich in other nutrients hence they show a collective result, rather than in isolation. Take supplements only on advise by your physician.

Consuming a magnesium rich diet is difficult with higher rates of food processing and global warming in today’s time.⁵ Hence, mindful dietary practises are the only saviour until the agricultural practises are reformed. 

Food sources 

Various food sources that are rich in magnesium include:

• Rich Mg foods- Nuts, seeds, whole grains and green vegetables
• Moderate Mg foods- Meat and fish, berries, fruit, legumes
• Trace Mg foods- Dairy products, water (boiled, tap, or mineral)

Plant sources

A number of factors like milling of whole grains or the presence of compounds like oxalate, phytate (they can bind to magnesium) reduce the available magnesium in the vegetarian diet. 

To avoid this, soaking of seeds, grains and legumes or germinating them is advised. Even sour-dough methods in the baking industry help. Consume whole grains as far as possible to ensure a higher magnesium content.

Animal sources

Crustaceans and molluscs have the highest Mg (2300 mg/kg) levels. This is followed by pork, and lastly- chicken. Milk consumption for Mg depends on the quality of milk, the stage of lactation and the overall health of the animal. It is usually higher in the first few days (colostrum milk).  

Other sources include dark chocolate (more than 70%), soymilk, raisins and peanut butter.

When and how to take magnesium for gallbladder sludge?

• Take Mg with food to avoid side effects like diarrhoea
• Avoid calcium rich foods with Mg as they can compete with absorption of Mg
• In case you miss a dose, do not take two doses
• Take it at a convenient time for you with your meal. If taken at bedtime, it also improves sleep quality 

Consult your General Physician before you take magnesium. 

Side effects and other concerns

• Magnesium is a diverse mineral. It is used for many purposes in medicine. One common purpose is for constipation and heartburn, where it is sold as magnesium hydroxide. So be aware of the recommended dose, as excessive doses can lead to loose stools
• Alcohol can speed up the expelling of magnesium by the kidneys⁶
• If taken from food, toxicity of magnesium is rare because of the kidney’s compensatory mechanism to flush out the excess
• Since it is stored in the tissues, estimating blood magnesium levels does not accurately report a deficiency or excess.

Summary

Magnesium is commonly found in plant sources like nuts, seeds, and greens and animal sources like crustaceans, molluscs, pork, chicken and milk. Magnesium aids in bile release and relaxes gallbladder openings. It’s potential to reduce bad cholesterol and upregulate good cholesterol, along with its impact on insulin secretion, curbs gallstone risk. Dietary balance matters, and consulting a healthcare professional is crucial before making changes. Though studies on supplements and gallbladder health are limited, maintaining magnesium-rich diets could aid prevention, especially in a world with processed foods. Prioritize holistic health for gallbladder well-being.