Start with one tablespoon of unsalted butter a day. If you have avoided butter or fat in general, this may sound surprising. But we're talking about one tablespoon a day, eaten in one serving.

"That contains 10 grams of saturated fat and causes complete emptying of the gallbladder," says Dr. Gillespie, noting that two studies support this strategy. "The tablespoon of butter can't be poly or monounsaturated fat, and has to be eaten all at once." Doling out a third of a tablespoon three times a day won't achieve he same gallstone prevention step by putting the butter on a generous serving of vegetables.

Second, be aware of changes in your estradiol, advises Dr. Gillespie. Low-dose estradiol therapy can be part of maintaining a healthy gallbladder, among other important health objectives. The studies showing an association between hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and an increase in gallbladder disease reflect the use of synthetic hormone preparations, in particular the synthetic progestin, Premarin®, she says. If you choose hormone replacement therapy, select a natural preparation, one that is identical to the hormone your body produces.

While Dr. Richardson points out that losing weight won't remedy a gallstone problem, keeping your weight in a healthy range may decrease the likelihood of developing the problem. Incidences of gallstones are higher in women who have higher body fat ratios. And, if you're trying to lose weight, take it slowly and sensibly. Sudden and extreme weight loss can also trigger gallbladder problems.