Hepatitis C is a condition that affects the liver. It is caused by the hepatitis C virus, or HCV, and often becomes chronic, damaging the liver over a period of time. If you have hepatitis C, you may benefit from eating a healthy diet in addition to following physician recommendations regarding medication, testing and lifestyle modifications.
Importance of Good Nutrition
A healthy diet can bring about improved liver functioning in hepatitis C, says the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. It can also strengthen your immune system, which helps your body fight the infection. Eating nutritious food reduces the risk of cirrhosis, a devastating scarring of the liver. Good nutritional practices can also help you manage your weight, which lowers your risk of fatty liver disease. This is important as a fatty liver worsens hepatitis C outcomes. Hepatitis C medicines can produce challenges to eating, such as appetite loss, taste alterations, nausea and a sore mouth. It is important to maintain adequate nutrition despite these obstacles. Smaller, more frequent meals and bland foods may help you to eat better.
Foods to Eat
Most people with hepatitis C are allowed to eat the majority of foods found in any nutritious diet. Choose from a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein and dairy products and drink plenty of water throughout the day. Choose whole grains when possible, including whole wheat bread and rolls, oatmeal, brown rice, popcorn and other grains. Healthy fruits include bananas, berries, citrus, melons and orchard fruits. Strive for vegetables in a range of colors, such as tomatoes, onions, peppers, broccoli, eggplant and squash. For protein, choose low-fat options such as nuts, beans, chicken breast and lean beef. Fish is also a good choice. Complete your diet with low fat dairy products, such as skim milk, and healthy oils, such as canola or olive oil.
Foods to Avoid
Avoid excesses of salt, fat and sugar, as with any healthy diet. You should also abstain from alcohol and herbal supplements. Carefully wash fruits and vegetables to lessen intake of chemical residues and avoid raw meat and seafood. You may be advised to avoid supplemental iron. Limit the amount of processed foods you eat, as they often contain chemicals that tax your liver and excessive sodium your body doesn't need.
Complications of Cirrhosis
Cirrhosis brings its own nutritional challenges. It harms the liver's ability to process nutrients and you may not get the full benefit of the healthy foods you eat. You may also lose weight and have difficulty maintaining your health. Carefully follow physician instructions if you have cirrhosis and consult a dietitian as needed.You may be instructed to sharply reduce your sodium intake and increase your non-animal protein intake.
