Primary biliary cirrhosis is a degenerative condition marked by inflammation of, and damage to, your bile ducts, which transport bile from your liver to your gallbladder and small intestines. This condition reduces bile flow, causing this substance to accumulate in your liver and damage liver tissues. Diet cannot cure primary biliary cirrhosis; however, it may prevent nutrient deficiencies and reduce complications of this condition.
Vitamin D-Rich Foods
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that is stored in your fat tissues. Your body manufactures this vitamin when your skin is exposed to sunlight; however, primary biliary cirrhosis can cause poor absorption of vitamin D. Vitamin D aids in the absorption of calcium in your intestines, which can help maintain bone density and strength. Supplement your vitamin D intake by consuming foods such as eggs, low-fat or fat-free dairy products, mackerel, shiitake mushrooms, salmon and sweet potatoes.
Vitamin K-Rich Foods
Because bile duct inflammation can restrict the flow of bile, which is necessary for vitamin absorption, your body may not obtain sufficient vitamin K. Vitamin K is necessary for the proper clotting of blood, which can help reduce bleeding from skin wounds. It also helps reduce your risk of osteoporosis by improving your body's ability to absorb and use calcium. Consume foods such as spinach, asparagus, avocados and kale to boost your intake of vitamin K.
Beta-Carotene-Rich Foods
Beta-carotene is a carotenoid that your body stores and uses to produce vitamin A as necessary. Primary biliary cirrhosis may reduce the absorption of vitamin A in your digestive system. Adding foods rich in beta-carotene, such as bell peppers, dandelion greens, garlic, carrots, papayas and pumpkin, may help reduce vitamin A deficiency in your body. Beta-carotene's role in vitamin A production may help maintain immune system function and provide antioxidant protection against free radical damage.
Considerations
Avoid drinking alcohol, which can add to liver damage caused by primary biliary cirrhosis. Also, check with your doctor before taking any medication -- both over-the-counter and prescription drugs can increase liver damage. Avoid eating shellfish. The bacteria in shellfish can cause infections in people with primary biliary cirrhosis. Your doctor may recommend a low-sodium diet, particularly if you experience fluid buildup. However, unless your doctor recommends a lower daily intake, you should consume at least 1,200 mg of sodium per day to help prevent bone density loss, or osteoporosis.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Primary Biliary Cirrhosis; Christian Stone, MD; May 20, 2008
- Jackson Seigelbaum Gastroenterology: Primary Biliary Cirrhosis
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Vitamin K; Steven D. Ehrlich, NMD; June 18, 2009
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse; Primary Biliary Cirrhosis; Dec. 2008
