What is causing stomach pain when eating beef or grilled foods? I don't have a gallbladder.

Hi, guest.

It sounds like you're experiencing some digestive issues related to your gallbladder removal (cholecystectomy) and certain types of food. Here are some potential factors and considerations based on the information you've provided:

1. Post-Cholecystectomy Syndrome (PCS): This refers to a set of symptoms that can continue or develop after the removal of the gallbladder. It can manifest as abdominal pain, diarrhea, bloating, and other symptoms. Some people with PCS experience "bile acid diarrhea" because bile is dumped more continuously into the intestine rather than in response to fat in a meal.

2. Fat Intolerance: The gallbladder's primary function is to store bile produced by the liver, which helps digest fats. After gallbladder removal, bile flows directly into the small intestine, which can sometimes make it harder for the body to digest and absorb fat properly. This can result in diarrhea, especially after eating high-fat foods. Beef, especially certain cuts, can be high in fat.

3. Charred Meat Sensitivity: Charred meats contain certain chemicals that some people can be sensitive to. Additionally, the "char" on meats introduces more complex molecules that your digestive system may find challenging to process, especially if there's already an underlying sensitivity or intolerance.

4. Other Considerations: While the gallbladder might be a significant factor, other factors could be playing a role in your symptoms. It could be helpful to maintain a food diary, noting what you eat and when you experience symptoms. This could help you identify patterns and potential triggers beyond just beef and charred meat.