Hepatitis A Nutrition

Hepatitis A is inflammation and swelling of the liver resulting from the hepatitis A virus. This virus is usually found in the feces and blood of an infected individual approximately 15 to 45 days prior to the onset of symptoms, according to the National Center for Biotechnology Information. Before using nutritional treatments to help combat your hepatitis A infection, review all relevant procedures, alternatives and risks with your primary care provider.

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is one of oldest diseases affecting humans, states the World Health Organization, WHO, adding that hepatitis A is a self-limited disease. It may cause fulminant hepatitis --- acute liver failure --- and death in only a small number of people, although this condition accounts for significant socioeconomic losses in certain parts of the world. Dark urine, fatigue, itching, reduced appetite, mild fever, nausea and vomiting, pale stools and yellow skin, or jaundice, are among the most common hepatitis A-related signs and symptoms.

Nutritional Therapy

Hepatitis A is a condition that may respond to nutritional therapy, especially nutritional supplements. Further scientific scrutiny may be required to validate the use of these nutritional supplements in treating hepatitis A. In her book "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch lists numerous supplements that may help treat hepatitis and protect your liver health and function, including inositol hexaphosphate, SAMe, alpha-lipoic acid, raw liver extract, artichoke, fumitory, ligustrum and schisandra.

Highlighted Nutritional Supplement

Inositol hexaphosphate, also known as phytic acid, may be a beneficial nutritional supplement in treating hepatitis A. Inositol hexaphosphate, notes the American Cancer Society, has historically been used in treating numerous ailments, including liver disease, heart disease, elevated cholesterol levels and kidney stones. Inositol hexaphosphate is a potent antioxidant that may have numerous beneficial health effects on your body, including protecting your liver. This chemical is also found in certain foods, including brown rice, beans and corn.

Disclaimer

Although rare, complications associated with hepatitis A do arise. Approximately one in every 1,000 people with this condition develops acute liver failure, which can be life-threatening. If you are diagnosed with hepatitis A, visit your healthcare practitioner to review all possible treatment strategies, including nutritional therapies. Not all nutritional therapies may be appropriate for you and your condition. Review all relevant nutrition-related issues with your doctor before using this natural treatment method for your hepatitis A.