Biliary disorders: the most effective dietary supplements

Biliary dyspepsia is a digestive disorder related to bile dysfunction, a fluid essential for fat digestion. Produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder, bile plays a key role in the emulsification of fats during digestion. Any disruption in the production, secretion, or flow of bile can lead to uncomfortable symptoms associated with dyspepsia.

Causes

Biliary dyspepsia is primarily caused by abnormalities in the motility and sensitivity of the digestive system, notably motor disorders affecting gastric emptying and intestinal transit. Inflammation, often caused by infections such as Helicobacter pylori, as well as psychological factors, can also aggravate these abnormalities. The enterohepatic circulation of bile is a complex process that allows the reabsorption and reuse of bile acids. Interruption of this cycle can lead to digestive consequences, notably fat malabsorption and diarrhea related to an excess of bile acids in the colon. Several conditions can cause biliary dyspepsia: • Gallstone disease: Gallstones are one of the most common causes of biliary disorders, blocking the ducts and disrupting bile flow. • Cholecystitis: Inflammation of the gallbladder, often related to gallstones, can cause pain and impaired digestion. • Biliary dyskinesia: A motility disorder of the biliary tract that affects the release of bile into the intestine. • Biliary stricture: Narrowing of the bile ducts, limiting the normal flow of bile. • Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas can also affect the biliary system by disrupting digestive flows.

Symptoms

The main symptoms of biliary dyspepsia include: • Epigastric pain: often located in the upper part of the abdomen. • Sensation of abdominal fullness: a sensation of a "full" stomach even after small meals. • Bloating and flatulence: caused by disturbed fat digestion. • Nausea and vomiting: common after fatty or heavy meals. • Frequent belching: a response to gas accumulation in the digestive tract. • Burning sensation in the stomach: related to poor regulation of bile acids. These symptoms tend to worsen after consuming fatty meals or during periods of stress.

Management

Management of biliary dyspepsia is based on identifying the underlying cause and adopting appropriate therapeutic measures. In cases of gallstone disease or recurrent cholecystitis, a cholecystectomy (removal of the gallbladder) is often necessary. This surgical procedure can be performed laparoscopically, a minimally invasive technique, or, in more complex cases, by laparotomy. Medical treatments may be prescribed to relieve symptoms and treat the cause: • Antispasmodics: used to reduce spasms of the biliary tract. • Ursodeoxycholic acid: a medication that helps dissolve cholesterol gallstones and improve bile flow. Diet plays a key role in the management of biliary disorders. It is recommended to: • Reduce consumption of saturated fats and fried foods, which worsen symptoms. • Opt for lighter, more frequent meals to reduce digestive overload. • Increase fiber intake and maintain good hydration to aid intestinal transit. Regular follow-up is necessary to adjust treatments according to the progression of the condition and to monitor possible complications, such as pancreatitis.