What is the Diet during Hepatitis
Chronic hepatitis infection affects the functioning of your liver and the way your body uses energy from food. Making the proper adjustments in your diet can help to protect your liver and prevent further complications from your condition.
You may also be at an increased risk for malnutrition because of the side effects of hepatitis treatment. Common side effects of hepatitis treatment include poor appetite, nausea, and vomiting.
It is important that you eat a balanced diet with enough calories to support your body’s energy needs and maintain a healthy weight.
What is my plan?
Your health care provider or dietitian may make specific diet recommendations based on your condition.
- Sodium (mg/day)
- Fluids (oz/day)
- Protein (oz/day)
- Vitamin and mineral supplements
What do I need to know about this diet?
- Limit foods that are high in fat, sugar, and salt (sodium). Do not add extra salt to food.
- Avoid processed foods. Check food labels for dietary information.
- Do not eat uncooked shellfish.
- Avoid dehydration by drinking enough fluid to keep your urine clear or pale yellow or as directed. Limit your fluid intake only if recommended by your health care provider.
- Grill, boil, or bake foods instead of frying. Do not use pots and pans made of iron.
- Try eating frequent small meals instead of three large meals each day.
- Avoid or limit drinks that contain alcohol, such as beer, wine, and hard liquor.
- Maintain a clean meal preparation and eating space. Wash your hands before and after preparing food and eating.
- If you are underweight, your health care provider may recommend a high-calorie diet.
- Take vitamin and mineral supplements only as directed by your dietitian.
- Make any dietary changes that are recommended by your health care provider or your dietitian. You may need to adjust the amount of certain foods and substances that you eat.
What foods can I eat?
Grains
Whole-grain bread, tortillas, cereals, and pasta. Brown rice. Oats and oatmeal.
Vegetables
Carrots, broccoli, cabbage, celery, cucumbers, and potatoes. Frozen vegetables. Low-sodium canned vegetables.
Fruits
Apples, bananas, pears, apricots, grapes, and cherries. Canned fruit (in juice or water).
Meats and Other Protein Sources
Lean meat and poultry. Fish. Tofu. Eggs. Nuts and nut butters. Beans.
Dairy
Low-fat yogurt. Low-fat cottage cheese. Low-fat cheese. Milk shakes.
Beverages
Water. Low-fat milk. 100% fruit juice. Low-sodium vegetable juice. Smoothies. Herbal tea.
Condiments
Low-fat mayonnaise. Low-sodium soy sauce.
Sweets and Desserts
Low-fat cookies. Low-fat bran muffins.
Fats and Oils
Canola oil, olive oil, corn oil, sunflower oil, peanut oil, and flaxseed oil.
Other
Baked chips. Whole-grain crackers. Powdered protein supplements (check label for sodium, fat, and iron content).
What foods are not recommended?
Food adjustments will be different for each person with chronic hepatitis infection. Be sure to see a dietitian who can help you determine the specific adjustments that you will need to make for each of the food groups. Foods and food ingredients that are commonly not recommended include:
Grains
Iron-fortified cereals and breads.
Vegetables
Fermented vegetables, such as sauerkraut and pickles. Canned vegetables that are high in sodium. Dark green leafy vegetables, such as spinach and kale.
Fruits
Raisins.
Meats and Other Protein Sources
Red meat. Pork. Chicken. Shellfish. Fish. Beans. Salted nuts. Salted or cured meats.
Condiments
Ketchup. Mustard. Barbecue sauce.
Fats and Oils
Animal fats, such as butter, lard, or ghee. Fruit oils, such as coconut oil or avocado oil.
Other
Salted snacks, such as potato chips or pretzels. Canned soups. Frozen dinners. Processed foods. Multivitamins and supplements that contain iron.
The items listed above may not be a complete list of recommended foods or beverages. Contact your dietitian for more options.
