Weight Cycling and Gallstones

Weight Cycling, or Losing and Regaining Weight Repeatedly, May Increase the Risk of Developing Gallstones.

People who weight cycle - especially with losses and gains of more than 10 pounds - have a higher risk for gallstones than people who lose weight and maintain their weight loss.

Additionally, the more weight a person loses and regains during a cycle, the greater the risk of developing gallstones. Why this is a risk factor is unclear. The rise in cholesterol levels during the weight-loss phase of a weight cycle may be responsible. It is also thought that each cycle increases one's risk for gallstones.

Further research is required to determine the exact link between weight loss and the risk for gallstones.