Liver cirrhosis diet involves taking high fiber foods as well as abstaining from alcoholic drinks.
Live cirrhosis is a progressive condition in which there is slow deterioration of healthy liver tissues and is accompanied by development of non functioning scar tissues. This unwanted change in liver is the result of alcohol abuse or attack of infections like hepatitis B. This condition negatively affects the functioning of the liver and disturbs the normal flow of blood. Liver cirrhosis interferes with the body’s ability to absorb essential nutrients from food, which causes malnutrition.
Foods to Include
Food, that the liver cirrhosis sufferers prefer to choose, is crucial to prevent further progression of this disease. Choosing the right foods can ensure minimal liver damage. As liver is not working to its full capacity, it is essential to include foods that promote optimal functioning of the liver.
High Fiber Diet
Foods high in fiber are considered to be highly nutritious and free from unhealthy fats. That is why they are included in liver cirrhosis diet. Having plenty of vegetables and fruits is the key to switch over to a high fiber diet. Taking well-balanced meals is necessary to stay away from malnutrition, which is quite common in liver cirrhosis patients. Whole wheat breads, boiled broccoli, cooked peas as well as fruits like banana and orange provide adequate fiber intake and need to be included in the diet for liver cirrhosis.
Low Fat Foods
Red meat such as pork and lamb, as well as fried foods contain a high amount of saturated fats. As we all know, break down of fats during digestion is done by the bile, a digestive juice produced by the liver. However, in this condition, as the liver itself is not functioning properly, it produces bile in inadequate amounts, thus leading to indigestion. Foods such as fish, skinless chicken (lean meat), are not only low in fats but high in proteins. Intake of fish oil too, is beneficial to prevent further liver damage.
One can either consume fish oil by eating fish or taking supplements. Fish oil is high in omega 3 essential fatty acids, which can help to stop progression of liver cirrhosis. However, eating raw fish, especially shellfish is not recommended, as it contains a specific type of bacterium that can trigger a severe infection.
Foods to Avoid
Alcohol
As alcohol abuse is the primary reason behind liver cirrhosis, it makes sense to avoid all alcoholic beverages. Even if alcohol consumption is not a factor responsible for causing liver cirrhosis, one should still avoid taking alcohol. This is because during this condition , even moderate alcohol intake can aggravate the problem and eventually lead to liver failure.
Salty Foods
Staying away from salty foods, is the key to manage liver cirrhosis effectively. People suffering from this disease are often advised to minimize salt intake. Excessive salt intake can cause water retention, which may aggravate this condition. Processed foods like a pack of chips, canned soups or tomato sauce, as well as fast foods are high in sodium (common salt), hence need to be avoided. Lower the salt consumption in day-to-day diet, better is the health. Raw foods are hard to digest and hence people suffering from this liver condition should avoid eating anything raw.
Proper diet can play a crucial role to control this liver disease to a great extent. However, keep in mind, that healthy food, which patients prefer to eat, should be cooked or steamed.
