Your liver is an organ roughly the size of a football on the right side of your abdomen. It allows for proper digestion and nutrient absorption and helps rid your body of toxins. The most common cause of liver disease in America is alcohol abuse, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Obesity, unsafe sexual practices, genetics and exposure to toxic substances may also contribute. A healthy diet may help manage your symptoms and boost your overall wellness.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables supply rich amounts of antioxidants, which support your body's ability to resist and heal from infections and disease. Although research is limited, antioxidants may play a role in treating primary biliary cirrhosis, according to the UMMC, which happens when bile ducts in your liver are gradually destroyed. Choose fresh over canned vegetables, which are high in sodium and may exacerbate fluid retention associated with liver disease. You should emphasize antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables including berries, cherries, citrus fruits, tomatoes, leafy greens, bell peppers, broccoli, Brussels sprouts and squash.
Grains
Because whole grains contain all nutritious parts of the grain, they provide more antioxidants and fiber than refined grains, such as white flour. Grains are also valuable sources of glucose, which is your main dietary source of energy, and may help manage fatigue associated with liver problems. Nutritious examples include barley, oats, brown rice, quinoa, air-popped popcorn and 100 percent whole grain breads, pasta and cereals. To ensure ample whole grain benefits, MayoClinic.com recommends purchasing foods that list whole grains within the first three ingredients and provide at least 3 g of fiber per serving. If you are experiencing delayed stomach emptying, your doctor may suggest limiting fiber. If this is the case for you, choose low-fiber grain products, such as instant rice, white bread and enriched pasta. Fortified low-fiber cereals are valuable sources of antioxidants.
High-Quality Protein
Protein enhances muscle repair, physical strength and immune function. Choosing high-quality protein may be particularly important if you have fluid buildup in your abdomen or swollen legs, feet or back, according to the UMMC. Consuming too much protein, however, may increase your risk for complications. To maintain moderate protein intake, your doctor may recommend plant-based protein sources, such as beans, lentils and tofu, which contain less protein per-serving than meats. The American Liver Foundation recommends that women consume 4 to 5 oz. of protein, plus 1 to 2 cups of milk per day and that men aim for 6 oz. of protein per day, plus 1 to 2 cups of milk.
Nuts and Seeds
Nuts and seeds provide heart-healthy, unsaturated fats and antioxidants, such as vitamin E and selenium. Malnutrition is common among people with cirrhosis, according to the UMMC. Fats may guard against deficiencies, because they help your body transport and absorb fat-soluble nutrients, such as vitamins E and K. They also provide energy. If your appetite is reduced, nuts and seeds may help you maintain sufficient calorie intake, because they are relatively high in calories per serving. Particularly nutritious varieties include almonds, Brazil nuts, walnuts, flaxseeds, pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds.
