From the Guidelines
For hepatitis, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins is best, as it helps reduce liver inflammation, supports healing, and prevents further damage while providing essential nutrients for recovery. According to the most recent and highest quality study, 1, nutrition has a central prognostic and therapeutic role in the management of patients with liver disease. The study recommends a shortened version of the ESPEN guideline on clinical nutrition in liver disease, which includes eating an adequate amount of calories and protein, and having a good, varied diet that you enjoy.
Some key points to consider when creating a diet plan for hepatitis include:
- Eating a variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins
- Avoiding alcohol completely, as it puts additional strain on the liver
- Limiting processed foods, saturated fats, and added sugars, which can worsen inflammation
- Including foods high in antioxidants, such as citrus fruits, bell peppers, and green tea, to help combat oxidative stress
- Maintaining adequate protein intake, but not overconsuming protein, as it can burden the liver
- Eating small, frequent meals, which may be easier to digest than large ones
It's also important to note that, according to 1, virtually no food other than alcohol actually damages the liver or is genuinely contraindicated in patients with chronic liver disease. Therefore, the focus should be on eating a healthy, balanced diet, rather than avoiding specific foods. If you experience nausea, try bland foods like crackers, toast, and rice until your appetite improves.
From the Research
Hepatitis and Nutrition
The relationship between hepatitis and nutrition is complex, with various studies suggesting that malnutrition is a common issue among patients with hepatitis [ 2, 3].
- Malnutrition can be caused by the impairment of liver function, which is essential for maintaining nutritional homeostasis [ 2].
- A study found that 13.5% of patients with hepatitis B or C were malnourished, and malnutrition was associated with cirrhosis, alcohol abuse, and other factors 3.
- Another study reviewed the literature on nutritional guidelines for patients with hepatitis C and found that nutrition has been recognized as a prognostic indicator in patients with chronic liver failure 4.
Vitamin D Deficiency and Hepatitis
Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to worse outcomes in patients with chronic liver diseases, including autoimmune hepatitis 5.
- A study found that patients with autoimmune hepatitis and vitamin D deficiency had increased odds of all-cause mortality, hospitalizations, and liver transplantation compared to those with normal vitamin D levels 5.
- The study suggests that vitamin D deficiency may be a risk factor for poor outcomes in patients with autoimmune hepatitis.
Risk Factors for Hepatitis
Acupuncture has been associated with infectious hepatitis, particularly hepatitis C 6.
- A systematic review of epidemiological studies found that acupuncture increased the risk of hepatitis C modestly, emphasizing the importance of using disposable acupuncture needles 6.
- However, the relationship between acupuncture and hepatitis is still not fully understood and requires further research.