Diet in Liver Disease


Patients who are suffering from Cirrhosis are often suffering from Malnutrition. They not only have reduced intake and decreased absorption, there is increased loss as well. Greater than 70% of the individuals suffering from cirrhosis suffer from malnutrition. They tend to lose their muscle mass and build up distended tummy because of fluid. It is now beyond doubt that those who fail to maintain nutrition are at more chances of dying from complications of liver disease. Patients with cirrhosis fail to store micro-nutrients and are deficient in multiple micro-nutrients namely zinc, selenium, Vitamin B, Vitamin C, Folic acid, etc. They also tend to have weakened bones and low calcium.

 There is a general belief amongst patients suffering from Liver Disease to cut down on diet as a whole and restrict proteins and other nutritious substances. It is a myth that more protein will lead to more complications. Instead, lack of these foods lead to more complications

 Diet is the most important aspect of management of liver disease.  Anybody who is suffering from cirrhosis should follow following points after discussion with their Hepatologist
  1. Diet low in salt – Less than 5 grams per day; The trick is to cook food without salt and add salt after serving so that an exact measurement can be obtained
  2. Diet high in protein – 1 – 1.5 gram per kg of body weight
  3. Protein powder supplementation – Ask Your Hepatologist for guidance in selecting
  4. High calorie diet (Except for those with fatty liver)
  5. Micro-nutrient Supplementation – Zinc, B Complex, Selenium, Folic Acid, Vitamin D, Calcium – Ask Your Hepatologist for a prescription
  6. Midnight Snacks – All patients should have a midnight snack as fasting for the whole night worsens muscle catabolism
  7. Fluid Management is individualized according to your need by your doctor

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