Is It Safe to Drink Soy Milk Powder with Cholecystitis?

During an acute cholecystitis attack, patients should avoid all food and fluid intake to reduce strain on the digestive system. This precaution helps prevent further irritation and allows the gallbladder to rest. However, when the condition is in a stable, non-acute phase, consuming soy milk powder may be beneficial. Soy milk powder can help lower overall blood lipid levels, support healthy gastrointestinal motility, and reduce the workload on the gallbladder by minimizing bile secretion and contraction demands. These effects may help prevent flare-ups and contribute positively to the patient's overall health.

For patients with gallbladder polyps or gallstones, bile flow can become obstructed, leading to bile accumulation and increased risk of bacterial growth. This situation may trigger inflammation and cause symptoms such as tenderness and rebound pain in the upper right abdomen, commonly associated with a positive Murphy's sign. Fever is also a common symptom, often ranging between 38-39°C. In such cases, eating can stimulate the release of cholecystokinin, a hormone that triggers gallbladder contraction and bile release into the duodenum.

However, due to existing inflammation or blockage, the gallbladder may be unable to expel bile effectively, which can worsen inflammation and lead to increased abdominal pain and higher fever. Therefore, during acute episodes, dietary intake—including soy milk powder—should be avoided until medical advice is obtained.

In summary, while soy milk powder may offer some health benefits during non-acute stages of cholecystitis, it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider to tailor dietary choices based on individual conditions and medical history.