For people with hepatitis, doctors will urge you to follow hepatitis diet restrictions and be more selective about what you eat and drink. Certain foods and beverages can worsen liver inflammation. So which foods should you avoid? Find the guidance below.

Foods to Avoid for People with Hepatitis

Hepatitis is often a viral infection that inflames the liver. When the liver is inflamed, it becomes less efficient at processing what you eat. During treatment, choose foods carefully to lighten the liver’s workload and help prevent additional damage.

Some foods and beverages that people with hepatitis should avoid include:

1. Alcoholic Beverages

Alcoholic beverages are a major restriction for people with hepatitis. Over time, heavy alcohol intake can injure liver cells and lead to serious liver conditions, including fatty liver disease. In severe cases, excessive drinking can cause liver cirrhosis, the scarring of the liver as the final stage of chronic liver injury.

If you have hepatitis, alcohol consumption can worsen liver damage and reduce how well medicines work. For anyone with liver problems, limiting alcoholic beverages is strongly advised.

2. Red Meat

If you enjoy red meat such as steak, or processed red meat like corned beef, avoid these foods when you have hepatitis. Red meat is typically high in saturated fat and iron. In certain settings, including chronic hepatitis C or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, skipping red meat is recommended.

When you consume a lot of fat, the liver must work harder; if fat metabolism falters, the risk of cirrhosis rises. In chronic hepatitis, some people also develop iron overload in the blood and organs. This can further damage liver tissue.

3. Foods High in Salt

For people with hepatitis, salty foods can aggravate liver injury. Monitor your salt intake, because excess sodium promotes fluid retention. Fluid may collect in the abdomen and cause ascites, and it can also contribute to higher blood pressure.

If salt intake isn’t controlled, it can lead to other problems such as kidney and heart issues.

4. Fried Foods

Fried foods are generally high in fat and calories and are best avoided. If you have hepatitis and enjoy fried dishes, begin cutting back and choose more boiled or steamed options instead.

5. Sugary Foods

The liver helps regulate blood sugar levels. People with hepatitis face a higher risk of diabetes, so managing blood sugar levels is important. Limit high-sugar items such as cakes, sweets, and candy.

Even though certain foods are restricted for people with hepatitis, the body still needs some salt, sugar, and fat to function. Keep intake within normal limits. If you have hepatitis, consult a doctor or nutritionist about your nutritional needs during recovery.

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