Cirrhosis is a permanent scarring of the liver due to damaged tissue, and risk factors include alcohol abuse, obesity and infections. You may have no symptoms at first, but you may develop weakness, fatigue and liver failure. A healthy diet cannot cure cirrhosis, but it can help you prevent liver failure. If you have cirrhosis or symptoms, consult your doctor about the best diet and other treatment to promote liver health.
Fruits and Vegetables
Most fruits and vegetables are good for cirrhosis because they are low in calories and fat to help you control your weight. You may slow the progression of liver disease by maintaining a healthy weight, or by losing weight if you are overweight, according to the Mayo Clinic. Another benefit of fruits and vegetables for your liver is that they can reduce water retention, or edema, because they are high in water and low in sodium.
Lean Proteins
Avoid fatty meat and dark-meat poultry with the skin, and choose lean proteins, according to the Langone Medical Center. Try lean beef, white-meat chicken or turkey, beans, fish and shellfish. Do not eat raw shellfish because they carry a high risk for foodborne illness, and individuals with cirrhosis have weaker immune systems. Your liver plays a significant role in protein metabolism, and your dietitian may recommend limiting your consumption if your liver can no longer handle high amounts.
Whole Grains
Whole grains can be good for individuals with cirrhosis because of their rich content of antioxidants, according to the University of Maryland. The whole grain contains the bran, germ and endosperm components of the entire grain kernel, and examples include oatmeal, whole wheat, barley and bulgur. Some whole grains provide vitamin E, an antioxidant, and many supply selenium, which is a mineral that supports antioxidant activity in your body.
Juices
Fruit and vegetable juices can be good for cirrhosis because they can help keep you hydrated, and many of them provide antioxidant vitamins A or C, according to the University of Maryland. Orange, grapefruit and tomato juice are excellent sources of vitamin C, and carrot juice provides vitamin A. Make your own fresh juice, or choose low-sodium varieties of canned or bottled juices. Salted or flavored tomato and other vegetable juices can be very high in sodium.
Member Comments