Hepatitis C Healing Foods

Hepatitis C, a liver disease, causes chronic liver inflammation. According to MayoClinic.com, the condition is often discovered during routine testing and it may be years before liver damage occurs. Hepatitis C is often contracted through having sexual relations or sharing needles with infected individuals and receiving contaminated blood transfusions. Adjusting your diet to include hepatitis C friendly foods will improve your liver condition.

Protein-Based Foods

According to MayoClinic.com, protein is an essential part of your hepatitis C diet. Protein fights infection, heals damaged liver cells and helps maintain and rebuild muscle mass. Nuts, fish, fish and dried beans contain substantial amounts of protein, as well as zinc, vitamin E, vitamin B and iron. If your body develops elevated iron levels, your physician may ask you to limit or restrict your iron intake as a means of protecting your liver.

Whole Grains

Whole grains are ideal for hepatitis C patients because they contain soluble fiber, which supports healthy digestive functions and may decrease blood cholesterol. Brown rice is high in soluble fiber, vitamin E, magnesium, selenium and B vitamins. Bioflavinoids, commonly found in buckwheat, supports liver detoxification. The United States Department of Veterans Affairs recommends you consume other whole grains such as rye, oatmeal, bulgur, oats, spelt and whole grain corn. You can also find whole grains in the form of cereals, breads and pastas.

Vegetables

Fresh vegetables sources are helpful in removing free radicals and other agents that may damage your liver. They contain vitamins, minerals, fiber and antioxidants. Vegetables such as asparagus, mung bean and artichokes contain vitamin C, potassium, folate and silymarin, which helps liver disease, notes MayoClinic.com. Examples of other hepatitis C friendly vegetables include romaine lettuce, spinach, cabbage, swiss chard, kale, mustard greens and collard greens.

Dairy

Dairy products are considered hepatitis healing foods because they are rich in calcium, vitamin D and protein, reports USDVA. These foods assist your body in removing liver toxins and promoting body functions. As a safety measure, choose low-fat forms of cheese, yogurt and milk because your liver metabolizes fat. Therefore, lowering fat content in your food sources will decrease stress on your liver.