Hepatitis C is a virus that affects the liver, causing inflammation and fibrosis. Sometimes called hep C or HCV, it is carried by the blood and other bodily fluids.
Everything a person eats or drinks passes through the liver and is converted into energy or chemicals that allow the body to function normally.
An untreated hepatitis C infection can damage the liver and lead to cirrhosis, or scarring. If hepatitis causes liver damage, a person may need to modify their diet.
How hepatitis C affects diet
Healthy and nutritious plant based meal for the hepatitis C diet, including tofu, brown rice, beans, avocado, carrot, watercress, and sweetcorn.
Hepatitis C that affects a person's diet will usually fall into one of the following categories:
Interferon treatment: Side effects of this kind of treatment can include loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, and sore mouth and throat.
Cirrhosis: People with cirrhosis often have a loss of appetite and energy. They can become poorly nourished and may need to limit salt in their diet.
Other medical conditions: Other medical conditions alongside hepatitis C can mean a change in diet. These conditions include high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, or kidney disease.
In most cases of hepatitis C, a special diet is not necessary. However, a poor diet combined with hepatitis C can lead to further liver damage.
Being overweight can lead to a fatty liver. When combined with hepatitis C, this can result in cirrhosis.
Drinking alcohol is another factor that can increase damage to the liver, so those with hepatitis C are advised to stop drinking alcohol or limit their intake.
Furthermore, people with hepatitis C are at an increased risk of developing diabetes. This means that a healthful diet is even more crucial for reducing body fat and controlling blood sugar.
A healthful diet can improve the liver health of a person with hepatitis C and reduce the chance of developing cirrhosis. Eating well helps keep the immune system strong to fight off illness.