Here’s how to stop liver damage with a healthy diet

Cirrhosis is a serious liver disease characterized by scarring, cell damage, and nodules. Here’s everything you need to know about its causes, symptoms, and healthy eating plans with which you can manage it effectively.

Cirrhosis is one of the top ten causes of death in the world. It is characterized by involvement of the entire liver, destruction of the typical architecture of the liver parenchyma, and the formation of nodules. Under a microscope, areas of necrosis (cell death) can be observed. Cells in the liver, called hepatocytes, are continually destroyed, followed by fibrosis (thickening or scarring of tissue). This eventually leads to the formation of nodules, which may be micronodules or large nodules.

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Cirrhosis was previously thought to be irreversible. However, it is now clear that the condition is reversible when the underlying cause is treated. Causes include chronic alcohol intake, viral hepatitis (B and C), cystic fibrosis, autoimmune hepatitis, and Wilson’s disease.

Signs and symptoms: Symptoms may include right upper abdominal pain, fever, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, anorexia, and malaise. In severe cases (jaundice), yellowing of the eyes and skin may occur. Spider-like blood vessels may be present on the skin and pale nails (thumb and index finger). Some women may also experience missed periods for no underlying reason.

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If left untreated, cirrhosis can lead to complications such as increased blood pressure in the veins that supply the liver. Swelling or edema may also occur in the lower limbs and abdomen. Portal hypertension may cause an enlarged spleen, and ruptured veins may cause severe internal bleeding. Since the liver is responsible for the metabolism of nutrients, cirrhosis interrupts this process and leads to malnutrition.

Although cirrhosis cannot be completely cured, you can still manage its symptoms by making wise food choices. Also, talk to your doctor to help slow the progression of the disease and protect yourself from other health problems like diabetes and kidney problems.

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Here are some dietary strategies that can help you manage cirrhosis and improve your health:

A balanced diet: If you have cirrhosis, aim to eat five to six small, balanced meals a day. This helps avoid the discomfort of common symptoms like feeling too full or losing your appetite.

Reduce sodium, meat and seafood: Additionally, people in the advanced stages of the disease should follow specific dietary habits. Eating less salt, reducing your intake of meat and raw seafood, and eating more carbohydrates are crucial to staying healthy.

To prevent prolonged fasting: It is also recommended to have a snack at night or have breakfast as early as possible after waking up to provide the body with essential nutrients and prevent prolonged fasting from stressing the liver. This eating pattern helps maintain stable blood sugar levels and eliminates the discomfort often associated with this condition.

Say no to alcohol: Since one of the important causes of liver cirrhosis is long-term drinking, it is best not to drink alcohol. It is recommended to set drinking goals and keep a journal to slowly reduce the amount of alcohol you drink.