From the Guidelines
Nuts are generally safe for individuals with elevated liver enzymes or hepatitis and do not need to be avoided, as they can be beneficial for liver health when consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. According to the most recent and highest quality study, the EASL clinical practice guidelines on nutrition in chronic liver disease 1, most foods, including nuts, do not damage the liver and are not contraindicated in patients with chronic liver disease. In fact, eating a variety of foods, including nuts, is advisable for all patients. The guidelines emphasize the importance of a good, varied diet that includes vegetables, fruit, and protein, and suggest that patients with liver disease should try to eat as much of these foods as they can.
Some key points to consider when consuming nuts with elevated liver enzymes or hepatitis include:
- Portion control is important, as nuts are calorie-dense foods
- A reasonable serving size is about 1 ounce (28 grams) or a small handful daily
- Unsalted varieties may be preferable for individuals with advanced liver disease who need to monitor sodium intake
- It is always best to consult with a healthcare provider before making dietary changes, especially if you have specific dietary restrictions or a severe liver condition
The Mediterranean diet, which includes nuts, seeds, and olive oil as primary fat sources, has been shown to be beneficial in the prevention and treatment of multiple metabolic conditions, including nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) 1. Additionally, a study published in Advances in Nutrition provides evidence-based practical dietary recommendations for the prevention and management of NAFLD, including replacing processed foods with unprocessed foods high in fiber, such as whole grains, vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts, and seeds 1. Overall, nuts can be a healthy and beneficial part of a liver-friendly diet for most people with hepatitis or elevated liver enzymes.
From the Research
Nuts and Liver Health
- Nuts are a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to have beneficial effects on liver health 2, 3, 4.
- Omega-3 fatty acids have been found to regulate hepatic lipid metabolism, reduce inflammation, and improve liver function in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) 3, 4.
- However, the evidence on the safety of consuming nuts in patients with elevated liver enzymes and hepatitis is limited.
Elevated Liver Enzymes and Hepatitis
- Elevated liver enzymes can be caused by various factors, including viral hepatitis, genetic liver diseases, and drug-induced liver diseases 5.
- A study found that extensive testing for all possible causes of elevated liver enzymes may not be necessary, and a focused approach based on pre-test probabilities may be more cost-effective 6.
- There is no direct evidence to suggest that nuts should be avoided in patients with elevated liver enzymes and hepatitis, but it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Liver Health
- Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA, have been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects and improve liver function in patients with NAFLD 3, 4.
- A meta-analysis found that omega-3 fatty acid supplementation decreased liver lipid content, but the evidence for its effectiveness in reducing inflammation and fibrosis is limited 4.
- More research is needed to determine the optimal dose and duration of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation for patients with NAFLD.