Hepatitis C is a viral infection that affects the liver and causes inflammation. Hepatitis C can lead to cirrhosis, liver cancer and a fatty liver. A healthy diet that adheres to federal dietary guidelines can improve the prognosis of an individual with hepatitis C and prevent chronic liver disease by supporting overall health and preventing obesity.
Beverages
People with hepatitis C or any type of liver disease should avoid all types of alcohol because alcohol puts stress on the liver. According to the Hepatitis C Support Project, the best beverage to drink with hepatitis C is water because it supports good hydration. Other non-alcoholic beverages that are healthy for a person with hepatitis C include 100 percent fruit juice, low fat milk, sports beverages and decaffeinated tea and coffee. The HCSP says caffeinated and carbonated beverages should be limited because they contribute to dehydration.
Plant Foods
The MayoClinic.com recommends eating plant-based foods like fruits, vegetables and grains. They have essential vitamins and minerals that support overall health and contain antioxidants that protect the body from damaging substances called free radicals. Diets rich in plant-based foods also tend to be low in calories and fat, which helps prevent obesity, a risk factor for chronic liver disease.
Low-Sodium Foods
According to the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, hepatitis C can cause fluid retention and swelling in the legs and abdomen, especially if it progresses to cirrhosis of the liver. Individuals with hepatitis C may need to reduce their sodium intake because sodium is known to increase fluid retention. Naturally low sodium foods include fresh fruits and vegetables, grains, dairy products, beans, legumes, nuts, eggs, meat and poultry. Foods high in sodium include canned vegetables, salty snacks like chips and crackers, salty cheeses like parmesan, fast foods and foods that have been highly processed.
Low-Fat Foods
The HCSP encourages individuals with hepatitis C to follow federal dietary guidelines like MyPyramid to stay healthy. MyPyramid limits dietary fat, especially saturated and trans fats and cholesterol, because consuming too much fat can lead to obesity, a fatty liver and other chronic diseases. Foods that are naturally fat free include fresh fruits and vegetables. Dairy products and lean proteins that are low in fat include skim milk, fat-free yogurt, reduced fat cheese, skinless chicken breast, egg whites, soy, beans, legumes, turkey, fish, seafood and ground beef that is more than 90 percent fat free. High fat foods include deep fried and fast foods, butter, lard, fat from meat, shortening, mayonnaise and cream.
Low-Sugar Foods
The Veterans Administration advises people with hepatitis C to limit or avoid added sugar. Foods that have added sugars are detrimental to health because they can be high in calories and fat which contributes to weight gain and obesity. Fresh fruits and vegetables, grains, beans, legumes, nuts, plain milk and dairy products and lean proteins do not contain added sugar. Beverages and foods made with artificial sweeteners are also low in added sugar and calories. Examples of sugary foods include soda, candy, sweets and pastries, flavored milk and yogurt, ice cream and frozen desserts.
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