Diet Plans For Patients With Hepatitis

Over 500 million people around the world have chronic infectious hepatitis, which can cause serious liver disease. Proper diet can help prevent a condition associated with hepatitis, namely liver steatosis, or fatty liver disease, according to the HCV Advocate, website of the Hepatitis C Support Project. Healthy foods and supplements can also enhance your immune system. Hepatitis can be transmitted through blood, bodily fluids, food or water. Talk to your doctor about the appropriate diet for you.

Recommended Foods

Lean proteins, such as fish, poultry and milk products, along with complex carbohydrates like whole grains, vegetables and fruits should form the backbone of your diet. Patients with hepatitis may benefit from meal plan low in sodium, cholesterol and sodium. Clinical herbalist Stephen Harrod Buhner, author of the book "Herbs for Hepatitis C and the Liver," explains that beets and garlic are recommended if you have liver disease. Beets possess the phytochemical betane, which has shown the ability to protect and regenerate liver tissue. Garlic can immobilize liver toxins while reducing fat stores in the liver.

Nutritional Supplements

According to Buhner, vitamin and mineral supplements can augment your liver health regimen. Some of the five strains of the hepatitis virus consume large amounts of selenium, leading to a deficiency. Insufficient selenium levels can lead to liver cirrhosis. The B vitamin group can ease liver inflammation, step up immune system functioning and act as a liver tonic. Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant, a naturally occurring substance that disables molecules that can damage cellular DNA. Additionally, scientists are looking into vitamin C's antiviral and anticancer capabilities.

Herbal Supplements

Contracting viral hepatitis can increase your chances of liver disorders, including cancer. One cause of liver disease is thought to be oxidative stress, which allows unstable oxygen molecules free reign to wreak havoc with your cellular DNA. A study published in the December 2010 issue of "World Journal of Gastroenterology" found that green tea and curcumin are antioxidant in nature and lower oxidative stress in your body. Curcumin also appears to interrupt the formation of fibrotic tissue in addition to detoxifying the liver. Green tea hindered the reproduction of hepatitis virus cells and fought inflammation, another cause of liver disease.

Cautions and Considerations

Hepatitis patients frequently have little appetite and become easily nauseated. Try smaller-sized meals and lighter foods served at room temperature, and avoid spicy foods that can lead to indigestion. Be advised that hepatitis patients should avoid foods that may harbor toxic bacteria and viruses, including raw seafood.