Hepatitis C is an inflammation of the liver caused by a virus called HCV. This disorder can be transmitted via blood from an infected person through physical contact or sex. There is no specialized diet for individuals diagnosed with hepatitis, but a health care provider may recommend some nutritional tips to support liver health.
Liver Function
The liver is an organ in the body that functions in vital metabolic, digestive, detoxification and hormone processes. It is also responsible for the storage of many vitamins, minerals and nutrients. The liver is not only the largest organ in the body but it also serves as one of the most important.
Hepatitis C Effects
Hepatitis C can lead to many complications such as cirrhosis or liver cancer. The United States Department of Veterans Affairs notes that patients with cirrhosis can suffer from decrease appetite and malnourishment. The treatments administered to patients with hepatitis can also cause adverse side effects that affect eating habits such as sore mouth, nausea, taste changes and vomiting.
Diet Significance
Proper nutrition is important for the health of your liver in many ways. For example, excess calories can lead to weight gain that promotes the buildup of fat in the liver, notes the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Certain toxins such as alcohol can also promote liver damage over time. Also, many cases of liver diseases are associated with malnutrition, according Hepatitis Foundation International. Healthy food options can lead to a healthier liver but promoting liver functioning, regeneration and decreasing your risk of cirrhosis.
Nutrition
Patients diagnosed with hepatitis C do not need to follow a strict diet. The most important thing to remember is to consume balanced meals from a variety of food groups such as grains, fruits, vegetables, dairy and lean meats, suggests the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Carefully monitor your calories and do not intake too much dietary fat, salt or sugary foods. Too much fat can promote fat deposits in the liver. Therefore, the Hepatitis Foundation International recommends to consume no more than 30 percent of total calories from fat. Consult a registered dietitian for the exact calorie needs based on your body mass index. Protein is essential for fighting off infection and repairing muscle mass and other body tissues. However, excess protein can promote toxin build up in the liver and may result in hepatic encephalopathy. Foods that are high in protein include dairy products, meats and nuts. Protein restriction should be only be done under the supervision of a health care provider.
Considerations
Limit foods that are high in salt such as processed, packaged or canned food items. The Hepatitis Foundation International recommends avoiding dietary supplements that provide high doses of vitamins A and D. Excess amounts of these vitamins can be very toxic for the liver. Alcohol consumption should be completely prohibited. Alcohol is also toxic for the liver and individuals with hepatitis C are at a higher risk for liver damage from regular consumption.
