Is this normal?

I am a 41 yr old male. I had my gallbladder removed about 6-8 yrs ago. For most of that time, I have been having persistent gas, and diarrhea within about an hour after I eat. Usually, it is when I have breakfast late, around lunchtime, or a big meal out at a restaraunt. I remember a time when I could eat pancakes and have chocolate milk and be fine. If I try that now, I get an emergency trip to the bathroom within about 30-45 minutes after eating. Is this a common problem after this surgery? What can I do to have pancakes again? Will this ever subside? Help.

[CalGal]

Many people have problems processing fats after having their GB removed. It's unfortunate, but most have to maintain a low fat diet after the surgery, and if you're one of them I'm sorry to say that there is not remedy for the problem. You might try having the pancakes with syrup, but I wouldn't try coupling it with butter or chocolate milk.

[Carla1958]

My 27 year old daughter had her gallbladder removed about 3 years ago and has the same EXACT problem. Even if she eats a very low fat meal it happens to her. There has to be a solution. I know from her experience that it is no way to live.