1. Eat and Live Healthfully
As long as you're taking good care of your body, you shouldn't have to start a special diet for hepatitis C. Just eat healthy foods, including plenty of fruits and vegetables, lean meats and whole grains. Decrease your intake of fatty foods and sweets. Eat fried foods in moderation. Incorporate foods that are rich in antioxidants, flavonoids, B vitamins and selenium. Get regular exercise.
2. Avoid Alcohol
Hepatitis C has a negative effect on your liver function, so any activities that hamper the organ are forbidden. Giving up alcohol will be the easiest way to lighten the load on your liver. Some doctors believe you can drink occasionally if you have the disease, but even light alcohol consumption can challenge your liver, and you shouldn't drink alcohol without consulting your physician.
3. Limit Salt Intake
If you have hepatitis C and cirrhosis of the liver, you are in danger of becoming malnourished and bloated. Many people with both conditions feel too tired to eat, and when they do, the salt in their food bloats their legs and feet. Eat regular, low-sodium meals. Cook meals at home to control sodium content, and when you're on the go, eat a can of low-sodium soup and skip the table salt.
4. Stock Bland Food and Protein Drinks
If you're taking interferon, you might not feel like eating at all. The side effects of this antiviral drug can include a metallic taste in your mouth, nausea and sore throat. If you lose your appetite, your doctor will recommend eating anything you can stomach, and that might not be anything more than bland food like lightly buttered toast or liquid foods like protein drinks.
5. Eat Smaller Meals
Eat healthy food to stop your hepatitis C from progressing. A large meal may seem overwhelming, considering all the energy it takes to prepare and your sensitive stomach. If so eat frequent small, nutritious meals. Experiment with different portion sizes and frequency until you come up with a combination that's right for you.
