Did you eat PopRocks in the 70s? Now those were definitely stone creators! (Hearty chuckles!) Just jokin' ya!
Okay. Now being serious. Did you check the Internet? Well I just did for you. Here is some info:
What Causes Gallstones?
Several factors may come together to create gallstones, including:
genetics (others in your family have had gallstones)
body weight
decreased motility (movement) of the gallbladder
diet
Gallstones can form when there is an imbalance in the substances that make up bile. For instance, cholesterol stones may develop as a result of too much cholesterol in the bile. Another cause may be the inability of the gallbladder to empty properly.
Pigment stones are more common in people with certain medical conditions, such as cirrhosis (a liver disease in which scar tissue replaces healthy liver tissue) or blood diseases such as sickle cell anemia.
What Factors Put a Person at Risk for Gallstones?
Factors that may increase a person's risk of
Gallstones include:
Obesity. This is one of the biggest risk factors. Obesity can cause a rise in cholesterol, and can also keep the gallbladder from emptying completely.
Estrogen. Women who are pregnant or who take birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy have higher levels of estrogen. This can cause a rise in cholesterol, as well as a reduction in gallbladder motility.
Ethnic background. Certain ethnic groups, including Native Americans and Mexican-Americans, are more likely to develop gallstones.
Gender and age.
Gallstones are more common among women and among older people.
Cholesterol drugs. Some cholesterol-lowering drugs increase the amount of cholesterol in bile, which may increase the chances of developing cholesterol stones.
Diabetes. People with diabetes tend to have higher levels of triglycerides (a type of blood fat), which is a risk factor for gallstones.
Rapid weight loss. If a person loses weight too quickly, his or her liver secretes extra cholesterol, which may lead to gallstones. Also, fasting may cause the gallbladder to contract less.
Remember that PopRocks too!
Hope that helps.
North Coast Man