Good news! Some of your favorite foods can actually help support your liver health and manage hepatitis C symptoms. This article will explore how healthy foods and drinks can help you start feeling better soon.
Following a diet and exercise plan will help you manage your symptoms and also feel physically and mentally healthier. So truthfully, there is no downside! Keep reading for a few specific diet tips to follow.
- Eat High-Fiber Foods
Foods that are high in fiber include whole grains, fresh fruits and veggies, and beans and lentils. Fiber helps your body eliminate toxins and boost your immunity. It also helps restore liver cells from damage. Adding a few daily servings of fiber to your diet is easy to do and can make a big impact on managing hepatitis C.
- Cut Back on Red Meat
Heavy red meat consumption is associated with high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and an increased risk of gout. Not to mention, red meat is hard for your body to break down and can cause unnecessary strain on the digestive system.
Try swapping red meat for lean meat like chicken or turkey. When seasoned correctly or served with a great sauce, you’ll hardly miss the red meat!
- Water, Water, Water
Hydration is important regardless of your hepatitis status because it helps our body transport nutrients and keeps joints healthy. Water is a good substitute for sugary drinks like juice and soda which can increase toxins in the system. It’s also very important to avoid alcohol if you have hepatitis C because it can further damage the liver.
- Steer Clear of Uncooked Protein
Raw fish such as oysters or clams are considered bad foods for hepatitis C. Eating raw or undercooked meat also increases a person’s chances of contracting hepatitis A. So, don’t take any chances with street food or meat that is cooked “rare”.
Interested in learning about Twinrix, a vaccine for Hepatitis A and B? Or want to find out how long is Twinrix effective? Staying informed about treatments for hepatitis and prevention methods is the best way to promote your health and safety.
- Say No to Fried Food
Fried food contains a lot of fat and sugar, both of which are bad if you have hepatitis C. The harmful chemicals can also increase your risk of high cholesterol and heart disease.
- Eat Small Meals
Enjoying healthy foods and drinks is only part of the equation. You should also be aware of portion sizes. Eating smaller meals is easier for the liver than large ones. Try snacking more and eating smaller meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Take Control and Manage Hepatitis C
Eating a balanced diet and following the guidelines above can help you manage hepatitis C and overall feel healthier. By increasing fiber, water, and lean meat intake and staying away from red meat, fried food, and raw proteins your liver can function at an optimal level reducing hepatitis C symptoms.
If you have additional questions or concerns, talk to your doctor. And if you want more nutrition, fitness, and health tips, read our other blogs!