Friendly Foods For Hepatitis C

The Centers for Disease Control estimates that more than 3 million Americans have chronic hepatitis C. This disease is spread by exposure to contaminated blood, and is the primary cause of liver transplants in the United States. Receiving conventional medical care is vital, as is choosing nutritious foods that support liver health. Registered dietician Charlie Smigelski suggests emphasizing foods such as apricots, blueberries, dark leafy greens, broccoli, turkey, sardines and corn tortillas.

Hepatitis C

Chronic hepatitis C is a serious liver disease that causes up to 10,000 American deaths each year. It can lead to liver cancer, cirrhosis and liver failure. Approximately 15 to 25 percent of those who contract this virus will not develop chronic hepatitis C. Scientists do not yet understand why the hepatitis C virus, HCV, disappears spontaneously from some people's systems. Of the remaining infected people, however, 75 to 85 percent go on to develop chronic hepatitis C. For the last 20 years, physicians have been treating the disease with interferon and the oral drug ribavirin with unspectacular results. The Cleveland Clinic notes that two new drugs in the category of hepatitis C protease inhibitors promise increased success in treatment.

DIet and Exercise

Basic nutritional guidelines for those with hepatitis C include obtaining about 50 percent of your daily calories from carbohydrates such as vegetables, whole grains and fruit sources. Eliminate or minimize high-sugar foods such as candy and desserts. Keep your fat intake moderate and choose healthy fats, including nuts, seeds and olives. Eat some protein at each meal, including legumes, dairy and tofu, suggests the National AIDS Treatment Advocacy Project. Drinking plentiful amounts of water and exercising in moderation are essential, as well.

Vitamins

Hepatitis C patients may benefit from vitamin supplements. For example, one research study of liver disease patients found that more than 90 percent had low vitamin D levels, according to dietician Leslie Beck. The Veteran's Administration cautions, however, that certain herbal and vitamin supplements can be injurious to those with this condition. The liver, which is the detoxifying organ in the body, may have difficulty metabolizing certain supplements. Check with your physician before taking vitamins, herbs or other supplements.

Food and Supplement Safety

In order to support liver function, you need to avoid substances toxic to the liver. These include a number of prescription and over-the-counter medications, including aspirin and acetaminophen. Too much vitamin A and D can be injurious to the liver, as can certain minerals such as copper and iron. Drinking alcohol causes immense liver damage for those with hepatitis C. The HCV Advocate web site cautions hepatitis C patients to generally avoid raw shellfish and processed foods that may contain chemical additives and too much sodium.