Hepatitis C is caused by a virus that causes inflammation and attacks the liver. It can cause scarring of the liver, liver cancer and liver failure. Though many individuals do not need to follow a certain diet, there may be dietary considerations for optimal nutrition. If you have hepatitis C, consult with your health care provider about an appropriate treatment plan for you and any dietary changes that you should make.
Limiting Iron
Individuals with hepatitis C may have trouble excreting iron from the body, which can lead to a buildup of excess iron in the liver, blood and other areas of the body. Too much iron can damage the liver and can reduce the effectiveness of interferon therapy. Those with hepatitis C should limit the amount of iron consumed through diet, which means limiting foods like red meat, tuna, oysters, sesame seeds and iron-fortified foods. Do not take iron supplements, and check your multivitamin to see how much iron it contains. Talk with your health care provider about an appropriate amount of iron for you and how you can keep within those limits.
Reducing Caffeine
Caffeinated drinks can dehydrate the body, and individuals with hepatitis C need to stay hydrated to flush out toxins the liver cannot excrete. Caffeine can also alter levels of potassium, calcium, vitamins B and C and iron. The liver processes caffeine, and for individuals with hepatitis C who may have cirrhosis, this can lead to slowed processing of caffeine, causing it to build up in the blood. Side effects of this can include headaches, fatigue, diarrhea, vertigo, heartburn, anxiety and insomnia. Try to avoid or limit your caffeine consumption if you have hepatitis C, especially if you are being treated for chronic fatigue, high blood pressure or cholesterol, gastritis, adrenal exhaustion, depression or migraines.
Food Recommendations
Most individuals with hepatitis do not typically require a special diet, but patients with cirrhosis, those having interferon treatments and individuals with medical conditions like heart disease or diabetes may need to adapt their diets accordingly. A healthy diet includes plenty of whole grains, fruits and vegetables, low-fat dairy products, and lean meats, chicken and fish.
Foods to Avoid
Foods high in fat and alcoholic drinks put added stress on the liver. These are difficult for the liver to break down and should be avoided if you have hepatitis. Especially avoid foods high in saturated fat. Foods you should eliminate from your diet include fried foods, processed foods, junk foods and foods with additives or pesticides.
