The liver helps your body process everything you eat and drink and turns it into energy and nutrients. It also aids in removing toxins from the blood, including alcohol. If you consistently drink more alcohol than your body can process and excrete, you can damage your liver. Liver damage from alcohol may be treated by medication, and in severe cases, a liver transplant may be necessary. Dietary modifications are usually required to provide your body with the nutrition it needs and manage any complications caused by liver damage.
Step 1
Monitor your protein intake. Too much protein can raise ammonia levels and cause neurological problems due to the buildup of toxins from the liver. Your doctor can help determine how much protein you should consume; this may include plant proteins, rather than animal proteins.
Step 2
Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. These contain antioxidants, which can help protect liver cells from damage. However, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, study results have been mixed, with some studies finding no benefits from these vitamins; more research is needed.
Step 3
Take a branched-chain amino acid supplement, if your physician says it is safe to do so. Dr. Kyrsten Fairbanks, from the Cleveland Clinic, states that for some patients with alcohol-induced liver cirrhosis, branched-chain amino acids can help stabilize nitrogen levels if the patient cannot consume significant amounts of protein.
Step 4
Limit the amount of sodium you consume, especially if you are retaining fluids. Minimizing sodium includes avoiding foods like processed and canned soups, meats, cold cuts and crackers. Fresh foods contain significantly less sodium and are recommended; use other herbs and spices on your food instead of salt.
Tips and Warnings
- Supplements like betaine and S-adenosylmethionine, or SAMe, can help improve liver function and reduce symptoms of cirrhosis, notes the University of Maryland Center. More research is needed on these supplements to establish definitive recommendations. Talk with your doctor about whether these may be helpful to you.
- Consult your doctor before making any significant dietary changes. Patients with alcohol-induced liver damage need to follow certain dietary guidelines and may be at risk for nutritional problems.
