Diet and Hepatitis C Article

What is the relationship between diet and hepatitis C?
General guidelines for individuals with HCV include maintaining a healthy lifestyle, eating a well-balanced, low-fat diet, and avoiding alcohol. A diet high in complex carbohydrates may be helpful in providing calories and maintaining weight. Since HCV infection may lead to loss of appetite, those individuals whose appetite is diminished may find frequent, small meals more easily tolerated. Adequate rest and moderate exercise can also contribute to a feeling of well-being.

Alcohol and hepatitis C
Alcohol is a potent toxin to the liver. Excessive drinking can lead to cirrhosis and its complications, including liver cancer. Patients with hepatitis C have a higher incidence of severe liver damage, cirrhosis, and a decreased lifespan, compared to individuals without the virus. It is suggested that the combination of alcohol and HCV accelerates the progression of liver disease. Total avoidance of all alcohol intake is recommended.

Iron and hepatitis C
The liver plays an important role in the metabolism of iron since it is the primary organ in the body that stores this metal. Patients with chronic hepatitis C sometimes have an increase in the iron concentration in the liver. Excess iron can be very damaging to the liver. Studies suggest that high iron levels reduce the response rate of patients with HCV to interferon. Patients with chronic HCV whose serum iron level is elevated, or who have cirrhosis, should avoid taking iron supplements. In addition, these patients should restrict their intake of iron-rich foods, such as red meats, liver, and iron-fortified cereals, and should avoid cooking with iron-coated cookware and utensils.

Fat and hepatitis C
Patients with chronic HCV are advised to maintain normal weight. For those who are overweight, it is crucial to start a prudent exercise routine and a low fat, well-balances, weight-reducing diet. Diabetic patients should follow a sugar restricted diet. A low cholesterol diet should be followed in those with hypertriglyceridemia. It is essential that patients consult with their physicians before beginning any diet or exercise program.

Protein and hepatitis C
Adequate protein intake is important to build and maintain muscle mass and to assist in healing and repair. Protein intake must be adjusted to one's body weight and medical condition. Approximately 1.0 to 1.5 gm of protein per kilogram of body weight is recommended in the diet each day for regeneration of liver cells in non-cirrhotic patients.

In a small but significant number of individuals with cirrhosis, a complication known as encephalopathy, or impaired mental state, may occur. Affected individuals may show signs of disorientation and confusion. The exact cause of encephalopathy is not fully understood. Some experts believe there is a link between dietary protein and encephalopathy. Others believe in substantially reducing or eliminating animal protein and adhering to a vegetarian diet, in order to help improve mental status. Patients who are at risk for encephalopathy may be advised to eat no more than .6 -.8 gm of animal source protein per kilogram of body weight per day.