We did the fact check to term it as False. The Claim According to an Instagram post, you can get rid of gallstones in just 15 days by regularly eating Kulthi lentil (Horse Gram). The post implies you can cure gallstones at home. Fact Check Can lentils dissolve gallstones in 15 days? No, lentils cannot dissolve gallstones in 15 days. Gallstones are solid deposits that form in the gallbladder which mainly consist of cholesterol or bilirubin. Once formed, these stones do not dissolve through diet alone. Kulthi lentils are rich in fibre and nutrients. However, there is no evidence to suggest that they can break down or eliminate gallstones. A 2022 review highlights the traditional use of Kulthi for treating kidney stones, but it does not provide any proven evidence of its effectiveness, and it says nothing about its ability to cure gallstones. Similarly, a 2014 review mentions Kulthi's anecdotal and traditional use in treating kidney and urinary stones, without addressing its role in gallstone treatment. Research into gallstones highlights various dietary factors that may influence their formation but does not endorse any specific food as a cure. For example, a 2023 study indicates that a can reduce the risk of gallstone development. However, this does not mean that eating specific foods like Kulthi lentils can dissolve existing stones. Additionally, evidence shows that dietary modifications can play a role in gallstone prevention. A rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, combined with healthy fats, can support overall gallbladder health. However, existing gallstones need medical treatment, ranging from observation to surgical options, depending on their size and symptoms. We reached out to Dr Prerna Chaudhary, BAMS, Founder of Shri Shubhda Ayurveda Wellness Clinic, Gurugram, for an Ayurvedic perspective on natural remedies for gallstones. She says, "No, Ayurveda has no such interventional medicinal treatment for gallstones. However, according to Acharya Sushruta (the father of Ayurvedic Surgery), gallstones are a type of Shalya (foreign body) formed through a disbalance of doshas. These Shalyas should be removed from the body through Shalya Karma (surgical management). According to the radiological size of gallstones (Pitta-Ashmari), those below 3-4 mm can be dissolved using Ayurvedic medicines as prescribed by an Ayurvedic physician." What are the effective treatment methods for gallstones? Medical interventions for gallstones generally depend on their size, type, and whether they are causing symptoms. Common treatments include:

1. Watchful waiting: If gallstones are asymptomatic, doctors may recommend monitoring the situation without immediate intervention.
2. Medication: In some cases, medications can help dissolve cholesterol gallstones, but this process can take months or years and is not always effective.
3. Surgery: For symptomatic gallstones, surgical removal of the gallbladder (cholecystectomy) is the most common treatment. This procedure is safe and typically performed laparoscopically, allowing for quicker recovery.

What role does diet play in gallstone management? Diet plays an important role in managing gallstones. While it cannot cure them by itself, making healthier food choices can help prevent gallstones from forming and manage symptoms. It is beneficial to follow a balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats. Additionally, keeping a healthy weight with a and avoiding rapid weight loss can further lower the risk of gallstones. By choosing nourishing foods, individuals can take positive steps toward better digestive health. Could eating more fibre help prevent gallstones? Yes, it can reduce the risk of gallstones disease. Increasing fibre intake through whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and legumes, may help reduce gallstone risk. However, it's essential to understand that while fibre can be beneficial, it is not a sureshot treatment for those already suffering from gallstones. Malvika Fulwani, Founder and Chief Dietician, Healthitude, says, "Research shows that a diet rich in nutrient-dense foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can significantly lower the risk of developing gallstones, while diets high in refined sugars and unhealthy fats, especially fried and fatty foods, may increase the risk. The gallbladder, which stores bile from the liver, is compromised when poor dietary patterns are followed, leading to a higher incidence of gallstones and other gallbladder conditions." She further explains, "Diets such as the Mediterranean and DASH, which emphasise lean proteins, whole foods, and healthy fats, have been shown to support gallbladder health. Foods rich in fibre, including legumes, cruciferous vegetables, and whole grains, aid digestion and may reduce gallstone formation. Healthy fats from sources like olive oil, nuts, and omega-3-rich fish also promote proper gallbladder function and bile flow." THIP Media Take The claim that Kulthi lentils can cure gallstones in 15 days is baseless and misleading. Even though lentils are nutritious and can be part of a healthy diet, they should not serve as a miracle cure for gallstones. For those dealing with this condition, consulting a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and management is important. Understanding the limitations of diet in managing gallstones can help people make informed choices regarding their health.