Is Chicken Broth OK for the Gallbladder? What You Need to Know

October 13, 2025 •

4 min read

Over 25 million people in the United States have gallstones, though many are asymptomatic. For those who experience symptoms, or have had their gallbladder removed, a low-fat diet is often recommended to manage pain and inflammation. This leads many to question: is chicken broth a safe and soothing option for the gallbladder?

Quick Summary

Clear, fat-free chicken broth is generally a safe choice for individuals with gallbladder issues and is often recommended during recovery or flare-ups. The key factor is the fat content; high-fat broths, such as some bone broths, can trigger painful symptoms.

Key Points

Low-fat is critical: The fat content of chicken broth is the most important factor for gallbladder health, as fat triggers bile release.
Clear broth is safest: Clear, fat-free chicken broth is typically safe and recommended for individuals with gallbladder issues, especially during recovery.
Bone broth needs caution: Homemade or store-bought bone broth can be higher in fat, so it should be consumed carefully, and fat should be skimmed off.
Post-surgery support: Broth is often part of the liquid diet prescribed after gallbladder surgery to ease the transition back to solid foods.
Dietary strategy: Broth complements a broader gallbladder-friendly diet, which includes lean proteins, high fiber, and moderated healthy fats.

The Gallbladder and Fat Digestion

To understand how chicken broth affects the gallbladder, it's essential to know the organ's function. The gallbladder's primary role is to store bile, a fluid produced by the liver that aids in the digestion of dietary fats. When you eat, especially a high-fat meal, your body signals the gallbladder to release bile into the small intestine. If you have gallstones or inflammation (cholecystitis), this contraction can cause significant pain, known as a gallbladder attack. Therefore, managing dietary fat is a cornerstone of gallbladder health.

The Verdict on Clear Chicken Broth

For those with gallbladder problems, clear chicken broth is typically a safe and beneficial choice, especially during an acute phase or post-surgery. Its advantages include:

Hydrating and Nutrient-Replenishing: Broth helps you stay hydrated and can provide electrolytes, which is crucial if you've been unwell.
Gentle on the Digestive System: Because it's a liquid, it requires minimal digestive effort. It's often included in a 'clear liquid diet' recommended by medical professionals to give the digestive system a rest.
Low in Fat: As long as the broth is fat-free or very low in fat, it won't stimulate strong gallbladder contractions, minimizing the risk of a painful attack.

The Difference Between Broth and Bone Broth

When considering chicken broth, it's vital to differentiate between clear, low-fat versions and potentially higher-fat bone broths. The fat content is the key determinant of its impact on the gallbladder.

Standard Chicken Broth: Often made from simmering meat and vegetables for a short period, it's typically a clear, light liquid. Many store-bought varieties are explicitly labeled 'fat-free'.
Bone Broth: Created by simmering chicken bones for much longer, bone broth is known for its richer, more gelatinous texture. This process can also render more fat and collagen into the broth. For someone with gallbladder sensitivities, this higher fat content could be problematic, and skimming the fat off the top is recommended.

Comparing Fat-Free Broth and High-Fat Bone Broth for Gallbladder Health


Feature	Fat-Free Chicken Broth (e.g., Bouillon)	High-Fat Bone Broth	Gallbladder Impact
Fat Content	Very low to none	Potentially high	Crucial; fat stimulates bile release.
Digestibility	Very easy to digest	Requires more bile for digestion	Easy is better for sensitive gallbladders.
Best for Recovery	Yes, excellent for post-surgery or attacks	No, generally not recommended	Avoids stimulating painful contractions.
Typical Use	Acute issues, clear liquid diets	Chronic use, gut health (needs vetting for gallbladder)	A low-fat version is a safer choice.
Skimming Required?	No, or minimal	Yes, often necessary	Reduces potential trigger for attacks.
Source	Commercial varieties readily available	Often homemade for richness	Both are available, but watch the label.

When to Incorporate Chicken Broth

Chicken broth can be a valuable part of a gallbladder-conscious diet at different stages:

During a Flare-Up: If you're experiencing pain or inflammation, a doctor might recommend a clear liquid diet for a day or two. A fat-free chicken broth is a perfect fit, providing hydration and some nutrients without stressing the digestive system.
After Gallbladder Surgery: Following a cholecystectomy, patients typically transition from clear liquids to a low-fat diet. Broth is a gentle starting point, helping the digestive system adjust to new function.
For General Digestive Health: A light, low-fat chicken broth can be a staple in a balanced diet, serving as a base for soups or a warm, soothing drink. It can help maintain regular meal patterns, which is important for gallbladder function.

Other Dietary Considerations for Gallbladder Health

While broth is helpful, it's part of a larger dietary approach. For ongoing health, focus on:

Lean Protein: Opt for skinless chicken, fish, and legumes over fatty cuts of meat.
High Fiber: Increase your intake of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Fiber helps clear excess fats from the body.
Healthy Fats in Moderation: Include sources like olive oil and avocados, but in small amounts spread throughout the day.
Avoid High-Fat Culprits: Minimize consumption of fried foods, processed snacks, high-fat dairy, and fatty cuts of red meat.

For more comprehensive information on diet and nutrition for gallstones, the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) offers excellent resources.

Conclusion

Ultimately, whether chicken broth is okay for the gallbladder depends on its fat content. Clear, fat-free chicken broth is a safe and soothing option, particularly during acute phases or post-surgery. High-fat versions, including some bone broths, should be approached with caution, as they could trigger painful symptoms. Always opt for the low-fat version, or make your own and skim the fat, to support optimal gallbladder health. As with any medical condition, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian for personalized dietary advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, clear, fat-free chicken broth is often recommended during a gallbladder attack. It provides hydration and nutrients without triggering the gallbladder, which high-fat foods would.

High-fat bone broth can trigger symptoms because it stimulates bile production. For safety, it is best to opt for a low-fat chicken broth or thoroughly skim all fat from homemade bone broth.

To make low-fat broth, you can cook chicken breast and vegetables in water, then chill the broth. Once chilled, the fat will solidify on top, allowing you to easily skim it off.

Immediately after surgery, your doctor will likely recommend a clear liquid diet, which includes fat-free broth. As you recover, you can gradually transition to a low-fat solid diet.

Most store-bought broths are low in fat and unlikely to cause an attack. Always check the nutrition label for fat content, and choose a fat-free version if you are sensitive.

The main dietary advice is to follow a low-fat, high-fiber diet. This minimizes stimulation of the gallbladder and helps manage symptoms. It's also important to eat small, regular meals.

While chicken broth is hydrating and gentle, there is limited scientific evidence to support specific anti-inflammatory benefits for the gallbladder itself. Its primary benefit comes from being a low-fat, easily digestible fluid.