Cirrhosis of the liver is a scarring of your liver's tissue due to a chronic liver disease. Your liver plays a key role in the production of some proteins, and liver damage may decrease these functions. Further, while eating protein is necessary to maintaining good health, if you're suffering from cirrhosis your ability to process protein may also be affected. Talk to your physician for advice about cirrhosis and protein in your diet.
Proteins
Proteins are a part of every cell in your body, and your body is constantly creating, using and breaking down proteins as part of daily life. When you eat foods with proteins, such as meats, fish and legumes, your body breaks down those proteins into amino acids and later uses those acids to create new proteins your body can use, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Your liver produces some of these proteins, including those that help control blood clotting, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Cirrhosis
Your liver performs vital bodily functions such as removing harmful substances from your blood as well as creating key nutrients. Cirrhosis scarring inhibits the liver's ability to perform these functions, and while the liver can often heal mild cirrhosis itself, more serious scarring causes permanent damage and makes it impossible for your liver to function properly, according to MayoClinic.com. Cirrhosis is accompanied by symptoms such as nausea, leg swelling, weight loss, fatigue, easy bruising and fluid buildup in your abdomen.
Cirrhosis and Protein
Getting enough high-quality protein is important to people with cirrhosis, especially if you have a buildup of fluid in your abdomen, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. The University also states, however, that people with cirrhosis may develop a dangerous medical condition if they ingest too much protein, known as hepatic encephalopathy. This condition causes you to experience confusion, an altered state of consciousness and can lead to coma or death.
Diet
Depending on your medical condition and the extent to which your liver is damaged, you may need to alter the amount and kinds of protein you ingest. Some cirrhosis patients may need to get most, if not all, of their protein from plant-based sources instead of animal sources, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. If you suffer from cirrhosis of the liver, consult your physician to determine the how much and what kinds of protein you need in your diet.
