Hepatitis is inflammation of the liver caused by a virus. There are several types of hepatitis, including A, B and C. Hepatitis C is the most serious of the hepatitis viruses and can be transmitted through blood or bodily fluids. Childbirth, sexual contact and sharing needles when injecting drugs are all transmission methods. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that 3.2 million Americans have chronic Hepatitis C. There is no vaccine for Hepatitis C.
Nutrition Implications
Many people may not experience symptoms after they have contracted Hepatitis C. If you do experience symptoms, they can include fever, loss of appetite, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, joint pain and jaundice. Loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting can all have an affect on your oral intake. Good nutrition is a portion of necessary treatment for Hepatitis C in order to provide the liver with the nutrients it needs.
Calories and Protein
Adequate caloric intake is important for treating Hepatitis C to maintain your weight or to regain any weight you have lost. Adequate caloric intake also spares protein stores. Thirty calories per kilogram of body weight is recommended. Eating several smaller meals throughout the day may help you obtain all of the calories you need. Adequate protein intake protects the liver against chemical poisons and helps in healing. It is recommended that you should receive 1-1.2 grams per kilogram body weight of protein per day.
Well-balanced Diet
Eat a well-balanced diet for Hepatitis C is important for regeneration of the liver. Eat plenty of cereals, breads, fruits and vegetables. Choose whole grain options when eating breads, pastas and cereals. Eat at least five servings of fruits and vegetables each day. Choose lean meats and low-fat dairy products. Healthy snacks can include fresh or frozen fruits, raw vegetables, milk, yogurt, cheese, bagels, bread, crackers, nuts and peanut butter. If you are unable to consume enough calories, eat foods with higher calorie or fat content. Liquid nutrition supplements may be required if you have a poor appetite or cannot consume adequate calories to maintain your weight. Avoid alcohol to prevent further liver damage.
Vitamins and Minerals
Hepatitis C patients can benefit from vitamin and mineral supplementation due to their antioxidant and healing properties. Vitamin C helps with immune function and tissue healing. Vitamin E and other antioxidants help to neutralize free radical damage. Lecithin and choline supplementation have been thought to prevent fatty liver. Lipoic acid is thought to strengthen the affects of antioxidants and can be used to treat liver disease, including Hepatitis C.
References
- "Nutrition Therapy and Pathophysiology;" Marcia Nelms, Kathryn Sucher, Sara Long; 2007
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Hepatitis C FAQs for the Public.
- American Cancer Society: Lipoic Acid.
- A Hepatitis C Patient Primer: Nutritional Considerations In The Treatment of Hepatitis.
