Which of the following is a risk factor for cholelithiasis?

Cholelithiasis, or the formation of gallstones, has several established risk factors, and one of the most significant is obesity. Obesity contributes to increased cholesterol levels in the bile, which can promote the formation of cholesterol gallstones. Moreover, individuals who are obese often have metabolic changes, including insulin resistance and alterations in how the body metabolizes fat, further increasing the risk of gallstone formation.

In contrast, a high-fiber diet is typically associated with a lower risk of developing gallstones because dietary fiber can help regulate body weight and promote healthy digestion. Age over 60 is a risk factor for many conditions, including gallstones, but it is primarily the lifestyle and metabolic factors associated with obesity that play a more direct role in gallstone formation. Low calcium intake does not have a recognized direct link to cholelithiasis; therefore, it is not considered a primary risk factor.