In liver cirrhosis, scar tissue replaces the healthy tissue in your liver, partially blocking blood flow and causing it to slowly deteriorate and malfunction. This detracts from your liver's ability to control infection, process drugs and nutrients, manufacture proteins that control blood clotting, remove toxins and bacteria from your blood and produce bile to help absorb vitamins and fats. A healthy diet developed under the guidance of your doctor is an important aspect of managing cirrhosis.
Whole Grains
According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, malnutrition is frequent among people with cirrhosis. Eating nutrient-dense foods such as whole grains reduces risk for malnutrition and is important during all stages of the disease. Whole grains contain fiber as well as important nutrients such as B vitamins, vitamin E, magnesium, selenium and potassium. Whole grains are those that have not been refined. Refined grains such as white flour have only small vitamin and mineral contents. You can find whole-grain versions of pasta, bread, rice, flour and cereal at your grocer. Other whole grains include popcorn, oatmeal, millet, brown rice, barley, wild rice and buckwheat.
Produce and Protein
Fruits and vegetables are another important aspect of a healthy diet for those with cirrhosis. A plant-based diet helps you combat malnutrition, according to MayoClinic.com. Consume a minimum of nine servings daily and aim for variety to give your body a good mix of nutrients. Focus on dark, leafy greens and foods that are a rich red, orange or yellow color. Also include cooked tomatoes. High-quality, lean proteins are another component of a healthy diet. However, too much protein can lead to complications when you have cirrhosis. That makes consulting with your doctor about how much protein to eat essential. Avoid raw or undercooked shellfish because it can carry a bacteria that is dangerous to those with cirrhosis.
Sodium
A low-sodium diet is one precaution used to limit additional liver damage when you have cirrhosis, according to MayoClinic.com. Low-sodium foods also are sometimes recommended to help manage complications associated with cirrhosis. For example, too much dietary salt can cause fluid retention, worsening swelling in your legs and abdomen. Choose home-cooked and fresh foods over processed or prepared foods such as frozen dinners and canned entrees because such foods are high in salt. Opt for low-salt or salt-free foods. Use pepper, other spices or lemon juice to add taste to your food in lieu of salt.
Considerations
Avoid alcohol and check with your doctor before taking any medications, vitamins or supplements because many of these can affect your liver function. Some supplements and herbs are purported to improve liver function, including licorice root, bupleurum, cordyceps and milk thistle. Only use such herbs or supplements under your doctor's supervision. Exercise extreme caution, advise the experts at the University of Maryland Medical Center, because your liver processes virtually everything you consume. Numerous herbs and supplements are known to cause harm to your liver or increase risk for complications if you suffer cirrhosis. These include vitamin A, kava kava, mistletoe and European barberry.
References
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Cirrhosis
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Cirrhosis
- MayoClinic.com: Whole Grains -- Hearty Options for a Healthy Diet
- Harvard Medical Center: The Nutrition Source; Vegetables and Fruits
- "American Dietetic Association Complete Food and Nutrition Guide"; Roberta Larson Duyff; 2006
- MayoClinic.com: Cirrhosis Lifestyle and Home Remedies
