Herbs And Vitamins For Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C infection is the most severe type of hepatitis, or liver inflammation. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 8,000 to 10,000 Americans die of hepatitis C infections each year. It is one of the primary causes of liver disease and liver transplants in the United States. While there is no cure, medications can contain the spread of the virus and alleviate symptoms. Herbs might be a supportive adjunct to conventional treatment. Consult your doctor before taking herbs.

Hepatitis C

Risk factors for contracting the blood-borne hepatitis C virus, HCV, include extended kidney dialysis and sharing needles or having unprotected sex with an HCV-infected person. Working in an occupation that involves exposure to blood is another risk factor. Eighty-five percent of those infected with the virus develop chronic hepatitis C, according to PubMed Health. Once the disease becomes chronic and continual, it can lead to other conditions, including liver cancer and cirrhosis. Chronic hepatitis C patients are usually treated with a combination of medications, such as interferon and ribavirin. A new hepatitis C drug, boceprevir, has recently been approved by the Food and Drug Administration, reports the "Los Angeles Times."

Diet and Exercise

The Hepatitis C Support Foundation recommends a healthy diet that is low in fat, sodium and cholesterol. Components of a wholesome food plan include sufficient protein, complex carbohydrates, and a variety of fruits and vegetables. It is especially important to drink plenty of clear fluids and exercise moderately. Avoid any substances toxic to the liver, such as alcohol. If you are nauseous or experience appetite loss, eat smaller meals more often and avoid spicy or fried foods.

Vitamin Supplements

Food should be your primary source of nutrients such as vitamins and minerals. Some hepatitis C patients, however, may benefit from a multivitamin supplement. Certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch in "Prescription for Nutritional Healing" says that key vitamin, mineral and antioxidant supplements for those with hepatitis include vitamin C with bioflavonoids, calcium, magnesium, CoQ10, inositol and vitamin B-12. If you have hepatitis C, talk with a registered dietitian about any supplements.

Herbs

Herbs that offer liver support or that cool inflammation include burdock, dandelion, licorice, beet roots and turmeric. Extract of the milk thistle plant contains a flavonoid called silymarin, which may mend and restore the liver, according to Balch. She also suggests schisandra, a traditional Chinese herb used to aid liver function, and Baikal skullcap, which is a powerful antioxidant. Other plants that may alleviate hepatitis symptoms are yellow dock, red clover and olive leaf extract, which is an anti-fungal. If you have hepatitis C, the University of Maryland Medical Center cautions you not to take supplements or new over-the-counter medications without consulting your physician.