How to Diet for Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C is a serious viral disease that causes the liver to stop functioning properly. It is typically transmitted through blood such as in a blood transfusion or needle sharing for drug use. It can also be spread through sexual contact and from mother to child during delivery. Many times Hepatitis C will not present any noticeable symptoms. Some symptoms that might occur include stomach pain, fatigue, diarrhea, loss of appetite, fever, and mild jaundice. Hepatitis C will not cure itself over time like some forms of hepatitis. Drug therapy is necessary to combat the symptoms of the disease. However, the proper diet is just as important in fighting the disease. Here are some tips on how to maintain a healthy diet if you have Hepatitis C.

Things You'll Need

  • Whole Grains
  • Fresh Vegetables
  • Beans
  • Soy Products
  • Tuna
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Instructions

  1. Hepatitis C Diet

    • 1

      Avoid animal products such as most meats. Meat is very taxing on the digestive system which adds extra stress on the system for a person with Hepatitis C. Also, the steroids and chemicals found in meat can cause further damage to the liver.

    • 2

      Replace caffeine beverages such as coffee and sodas with decaffeinated drinks. Caffeine over-stimulates the liver which is especially harmful to a person with Hepatitis C.

    • 3

      Drink distilled water instead of tap water. The chemicals often used to clean tap water can be almost impossible for a damaged liver to process.

    • 4

      Stay away from processed foods. Organic foods provide the nutrition necessary to keep the liver healthy. Processed foods simply stress the liver.

    • 5

      Leave the sugar out of your recipes. Sugar is extremely hard for the liver to process as well. Also, beware that artificial sweeteners are not a healthy substitute for sugar.

    • 6

      Opt for whole grains, fresh vegetables, beans, soy products, and tuna to ensure you don’t add stress to the liver. These foods are easy for the liver to process and will not over-stimulate it.

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