Best and Worst foods for Hepatitis C

Best and Worst foods for Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C (or hep C) is a viral infection (hepatitis C virus) that affects the liver. Patients who suffer from hep C often experience fatal complications, which include liver disease and cirrhosis. Hepatitis C is spread through blood contact, which is often contracted through the sharing of unclean needles, tattoo or piercing equipment, and unsterilized surgical or dental equipment. Hep C, in rarer cases, can be transmitted via rough intercourse.

If you’re a patient living with Hep C, there are certain foods that can either benefit or worsen the symptoms, such as:

1. Alcohol
Hepatitis C and alcohol are two of the leading causes of cirrhosis, which is why many people who suffer from hep C avoid consuming alcohol. Hepatitis C is an infectious liver disease, which is why you should do everything in your ability to maintain a healthy liver. Even if you’re not an excessive drinker, you should still avoid consuming alcohol, especially if you suffer from hep C.

2. Raw oysters and shellfish
If you suffer from Hep C, then you should likely refrain from eating raw oysters and shellfish. Consuming raw oysters and shellfish can cause deadly side effects if you suffer from Hep C. Unless it’s cooked thoroughly, contaminated shellfish often contains a virus, which can cause a different form of hepatitis. Raw shellfish and oysters can contain hepatitis A, which is typically contributed to environmental hygiene and contaminated water. All shellfish are filter feeders, which include crayfish, crabs, shrimp, lobster, clams, and mussels. Filter feeders feed on food particles left in the water, which are typically polluted. For patients suffering from hepatitis C, contracting hepatitis A is oftentimes fatal. Hepatitis A is asymptotic and can cause severe liver damage. If you suffer from hepatitis c, then you should only purchase shellfish if it’s fresh and odor-free, which should also be scrubbed and rinsed thoroughly.

3. Salty foods
You should also avoid foods high in sodium or salt. Everyone knows the dangers of consuming too much salt, which can cause not only high blood pressure, bad cholesterol, and heart disease, but if you suffer from hepatitis C, sodium is considered your number one enemy. A majority of people who suffer from hep c experience liver damage, which often worsens when they consume too much sodium. Consuming too much sodium forces your liver to work harder to maintain a healthy blood pressure level, which is why many people who suffer from hep C avoid sodium altogether.

4. Protein-rich foods
There is nothing more important than maintaining a protein-rich diet with hep C. Your body strives on protein, which helps strengthen your bones, cartilage, muscles, and skin. Hepatitis C affects the immune system, which can make you more susceptible to developing an illness or cancer. Typically liver cells eventually become damaged due to hepatitis C, luckily, protein can help repair and replace those liver cells, which is why protein is so important.

5. Dairy
Although many dairy products contain high amounts of sugar and sodium, it’s still considered one of the best choices for people who suffer from hepatitis C. Dairy products contain high amounts of protein and vitamin D, along with calcium, which can help those who suffer from hepatitis C. When it comes to shopping for dairy products, make sure you only purchase products, which are low-fat or fat-free, such as skim milk, low-fat cottage cheese, and low-fat Greek yogurt.

6. Whole grains
Whole grains are considered a superfood for a reason, which contains high amounts of fiber and protein. They also contain antioxidants and trace amounts of iron, zinc, and magnesium. A fiber-rich diet helps promote colon health and reduces the risk of heart disease, along with type 2 diabetes, and also lessens hep C symptoms.