Gallstones are pieces of solid material that form in the gallbladder, a small hollow organ located beneath the liver. Gallstones form from hard deposits in digestive fluid. Many people never have symptoms. Sometimes, gallstones can block the upper bile duct, causing pain.

What is the main cause of gallstones?

What causes gallstones? Gallstones may form if bile contains too much cholesterol, too much bilirubin, or not enough bile salts. Researchers do not fully understand why these changes in bile occur. Gallstones also may form if the gallbladder does not empty completely or often enough.

What foods and drinks cause gallstones?

Processed meats, like hot dogs, cold cuts, fish sticks, sausages, and canned meats (not including fish), can all contribute to gallstones. While these products are convenient, processing adds compounds to the food that experts believe increase the risks of certain diseases.