Diet plays a significant role in the treatment of hepatitis C. A scientific, balanced diet can maintain the liver in good condition as well as minimize symptoms. Therefore, people with hepatitis C need to pay attention to using foods rich in vitamins, starch, protein and follow the doctor's instructions.
1. Foods containing vitamins and minerals
The following foods are simple ways for hepatitis C patients to supplement their vitamin and mineral intake:
- Vegetables and fruits: Hepatitis C patients should actively supplement vegetables and fruits. Every day, they should eat at least one dark green vegetable and one orange vegetable (carrots, tomatoes, pumpkins, etc.).
- Fresh fruits containing many beneficial vitamins: Some fruits that patients should eat are apples, black radishes, beets, celery, artichokes, cherries, pomeloes, yellow radishes, chicory, onions, garlic, curly lettuce, mustard greens, kumquats, lemons, quinces, and grapes.
- Nuts: Cashews, almonds, walnuts, etc.
Not only do they help improve the immune system, but vitamins and minerals also help the liver metabolism and the body. Healthy immune systems protect hepatitis C patients from harmful agents and speed the eradication of the virus.
2. Foods containing protein
We can find protein in foods such as eggs, milk and dairy products, chicken, pork loin, beef, and beans. Therefore, individuals with hepatitis C should ensure enough daily protein intake.
However, patients should limit their consumption of protein-rich meals, particularly egg yolks. Additionally, patients should refrain from consuming canned, frozen, and long-stored foods.
Protein plays an important role in maintaining muscles, helping to restore and regenerate liver cells, and sustaining daily activities.
3. Fiber
Fiber not only helps prevent cancer and obesity and avoid causing high blood lipid levels and kidney stones but also helps patients with hepatitis C to digest easily. Therefore, patients need to ensure that they supplement the necessary amount of fiber every day. Some foods rich in fiber that people with hepatitis C should eat are apples, avocados, spinach, bananas...
Every day, patients should not forget to supplement enough water for the body.
4. Healthy fat-containing foods
A lot of people immediately go on a fat-free diet after getting a hepatitis C diagnosis. This is a mistake in the treatment of hepatitis C. Experts advise patients to provide enough fat for the body. In addition to helping the body absorb vitamins and minerals, fat also supports cell regeneration, improve the immune system.
People with hepatitis C should consume foods in the healthy fat group such as olive oil, coconut oil, fish, milk, yogurt, walnuts, and almonds.
However, the body cannot absorb all foods in the fat group. Avoid eating foods high in saturated fat as they can increase liver pressure.
5. Starch Group
Rice, bread, and noodles are starchy foods that people with hepatitis C should supplement in a balanced way, depending on the physical condition of each person. This starch group helps the liver store energy lost in daily activities. Completely eliminating starch from the diet will cause the liver to have no reserves and the body cannot function. In addition to eating foods that are beneficial for hepatitis C, patients should also avoid certain harmful foods, such as:
- Foods high in fat, such as fried foods, grease, oxidized fat, butter, etc., should be avoided.
- Avoid sweets such as cane sugar, flour, processed foods, and foods with a lot of milk.
- Stay away from alcohol and stimulants.
- Eat foods that are spicy and packed with spices like chili, pepper, garlic, etc.
- Seafood
- Coffee or drinks containing caffeine
If you follow a reasonable diet, people with hepatitis C can minimize the symptoms of the disease as well as limit further liver damage. Therefore, you need to balance your diet, consume healthy foods, help the liver eliminate toxins, and strengthen the immune system.
Currently, Vinmec International General Hospital has liver and gallbladder screening packages, which help detect hepatitis C at an early stage even when there are no symptoms. Additionally, the Comprehensive Liver and Gallbladder Screening Package provides the following benefits to customers:
- Evaluate the liver's ability to function through liver enzyme tests.
- Evaluate bile function; vascular nutrition;
- Early screening for liver cancer;
- Perform tests such as complete blood count, coagulation test, and screening for hepatitis B and C,
- Evaluate the liver and gallbladder through ultrasound images and diseases that have the potential to cause or worsen liver disease.
- We conduct a thorough examination of parameters to assess liver and gallbladder function using tests and paraclinical methods; we also identify potential risks to the liver and initiate early screening for liver and gallbladder cancer.
Additionally, when using services at Vinmec, customers will receive advice from highly specialized and experienced doctors on lifestyle, diet, and nutrition to maintain liver health.
Please dial the HOTLINE for more information or to book an appointment HERE. Download the MyVinmec App to book appointments faster and manage your bookings easily.
