Your liver is one of the major filtration systems of the body, and the body's largest internal organ. When you experience liver disease, your body may not adequately break down and absorb nutrients in your food. Your physician will use your stage in liver disease to determine the best dietary recommendations. Eating recommended foods can help slow the progression of liver disease and keep you as healthy as possible.
Vegetable Protein Servings
Proteins are important in a liver disease diet, yet you may have to limit protein intake because your liver is responsible for filtering ammonia that is formed as a waste product from the breakdown of proteins. Because those with liver disease seem to better tolerate proteins from vegetable sources than animal sources, your physician may recommend increasing your intake of unsalted peanut butter, tofu and dried peas, beans of lentils. Pay careful attention to serving sizes and eat small amounts throughout your day to keep excess toxins from building up.
Low-Sodium Foods
Liver disease can cause your body to retain water. This can be an uncomfortable occurrence because water retention makes you feel bloated, as if your skin is stretched too far. As a result, your physician may recommend eating a low-sodium diet. While you need some sodium to maintain heart function, you should typically consume between 1 and 2 g of sodium per day if you have liver disease and are retaining fluid. You can reduce sodium in your diet by cooking foods at home and flavoring them with herbs and spices instead of salt. Look for foods labeled "low-sodium" or "no sodium added" to further reduce sodium content.
Carbohydrates
Because of your reduced protein intake with liver disease, carbohydrates become even more important as a source of energy. When you have liver disease, carbohydrates are most often your major calorie source, as well. If you have diabetes, talk to your physician about the appropriate blood sugar levels with your condition. The Ohio State University Medical Center recommends eating carbohydrates like pasta, bread, oatmeal, unsalted dry cereal and unsalted pretzels. Space these carbohydrates throughout your day to maintain blood sugar levels and ensure a steady source of energy.
Healthy Fats
Eating enough fat in your diet can help to preserve protein in your body and keep the body from breaking down protein too quickly. If your liver disease keeps your body from properly breaking down fats, talk to your physician about the right serving sizes for you. Healthy fat sources in your diet can include cooking oils like olive or canola oil. Nuts and avocados also contain healthy fats that the body breaks down more slowly.
