Hepatitis C is a liver condition caused by the hepatitis C virus. Hepatitis C is diagnosed by a blood test, and it usually does not self-resolve. In some cases hepatitis C can cause liver scarring or liver cancer, and some people who have been infected with the hepatitis C virus may require a liver transplant. Nutritional therapy may be a helpful adjunct treatment in addressing your hepatitis C. However, you should always discuss this natural treatment approach with your doctor beforehand.
Hepatitis C Infection
Hepatitis C, a contagious liver disease, may cause symptoms that are mild and resolve quickly or symptoms that last for a lifetime. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 3.2 million Americans have chronic, or long-term, hepatitis C, and between 75 and 85 percent of people who become infected with the hepatitis C virus will eventually develop the chronic form of this disease. Most cases of hepatitis C infection are caused by needle sharing or the sharing of other equipment used to inject drugs.
An Appropriate Diet
An appropriate diet for hepatitis C-related liver inflammation involves certain dietary inclusions and exclusions. Certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," states that a raw vegetable and fruit diet lasting up to four weeks may be helpful as well as consuming carrot and beet juice and artichokes. Balch recommends avoiding alcohol, sugar, highly processed foods, raw fish, shellfish, chemicals and additives. Further scientific research may be needed to confirm the health benefits of these recommendations for this condition.
A Useful Food
One of the most useful foods in treating your hepatitis C infection, due to its ability to protect your liver, is artichokes. According to Alan R. Gaby, M.D., author of "The Natural Pharmacy," artichokes have also historically been used in treating indigestion, elevated blood cholesterol levels and irritable bowel syndrome. The leaves, roots and immature flower heads of the plant contain numerous beneficial nutrients and phytochemicals that may be helpful in combating your hepatitis C.
Additional Information
Your hepatitis C infection should always be managed by a qualified health care provider so you avoid the long-term health complications and reduced quality of life associated with this condition's symptoms. Nutritional therapy may best be used as an adjunct treatment measure in combating hepatitis C, and it should never be used in place of more conventional treatment strategies suggested by your primary care provider. Certain foods may cause unwanted health effects within your body and should be avoided.
References
- MedlinePlus: Hepatitis C
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Hepatitis C FAQs for the Public; June 2009
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
- "The Natural Pharmacy"; Alan R. Gaby, M.D.; 2006
