Diet Foods To Eat With Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C, a viral disease that causes liver inflammation, is one of the most common blood borne infections among Americans. According to the Arizona Department of Health Services, over 4 million Americans and 180 million people worldwide are infected with hepatitis C. Liver failure is one of the most serious health complications associated with this health problem. To better understand the role of diet and nutrition in treating your hepatitis C, visit your family physician.

Hepatitis C Information

Approximately 12,000 Americans die every year from chronic liver disease associated with viral hepatitis C, notes the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Hepatitis C is passed from one person to the next via infected blood or body fluids. Unprotected sex with an infected individual and needle-sharing between intravenous drug users are possible methods of transmitting this potentially fatal disease. Blood transfusions received before 1992 are another possible method of transmission of hepatitis C.

An Appropriate Diet

To help mitigate the negative health effects of hepatitis, naturopathic physicians Michael Murray and Joseph Pizzorno, co-authors of "Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine," state that you should consider consuming a diet low in saturated fats, simple carbohydrates, fried oils and animal products. Reduced consumption of these foods or substances helps improve your liver's detoxification mechanisms. A high-fiber, plant-based diet that includes increased consumption of artichokes, beets and carrots may also be helpful in treating this condition.

Featured Food

Beets may be a useful food in treating your hepatitis, or inflamed liver. According to nutritionist and biologist George Mateljan, author of "The World's Healthiest Foods," beets contain powerful antioxidants that may help protect your liver from free radical damage. Beets are an excellent source of folate and contain significant amounts of manganese, potassium, fiber, vitamin C, iron, magnesium, copper and phosphorus. Beets have also historically been used to promote heart health.

Disclaimer

Because hepatitis C is one of the leading causes of chronic liver disease in America, and because this infection may lead to liver cirrhosis and liver cancer in some people, it is important that you receive the proper care if you are diagnosed with this health problem. Though nutritional therapy is an important part of a well-rounded hepatitis C treatment plan, the use of this natural treatment method does not guarantee a cure or a beneficial health result.