Diet for Cirrhosis of the Liver

Liver cirrhosis is associated with transformation of liver cells into scar tissue and connective tissue. It occurs when various liver diseases fail to heal for years. When much functional tissue is destroyed, the organ’s performance becomes limited. However, as long as the liver performs its functions (compensated form of cirrhosis), this form of liver disease also does not require restrictive dietary measures, but a healthy, whole-food diet.

Malnutrition

Malnutrition is a common complication (>50%) of chronic liver disease and a critical factor in the prognosis and treatment of the disease. Malnourished patients are much more likely to develop complications, such as ascites (abdominal dropsy) and infections. Therefore, look out early for signs of malnutrition such as a decrease in muscle mass and strength, frequent fatigue, lassitude and reduced performance. Check your weight regularly, but keep in mind that it can be misleading if water is stored in the abdomen.

  • Ensure adequate energy and nutrient intake.
  • Consume about 1.2 g of protein per kg body weight daily; prefer vegetable proteins from soy products, legumes, etc.
  • Do not be sparing with fats! You can enrich dishes with cream, butter or vegetable oil and consume high-fat milk and dairy products.
  • Use possibly special products for energy fortification (e.g. high-energy powders for food fortification, high-calorie drinkable foods, etc.). However, use these only after consultation with your doctor or a nutritionist!

Abdominal dropsy (ascites)

If an accumulation of water in the abdomen occurs in the course of cirrhosis of the liver, it is important to restrict the intake of table salt. In particular, convenience foods with high levels of table salt should be avoided. These include: Ready meals, instant soups and sauces, canned vegetables, salted nuts, chips, pretzels, salty herrings, etc. It is also often necessary to restrict fluid intake. The doctor will give you precise information on this.

Liver-related brain disorder (hepatic encephalopathy).

Brain dysfunction can occur as a result of liver cirrhosis. This is due to intoxication by substances that can no longer be properly broken down in the liver (e.g., breakdown products from protein metabolism). If this occurs, a reduction in protein intake may be necessary in exceptional cases and for a short time. This should only be done on a doctor’s orders and is usually not less than 60 g per day.

Varicose veins in the esophagus

Blood flow through the liver is impaired due to the storage of connective tissue in the liver. Blood backs up and seeks other routes. As a result, small vessels in the stomach and esophagus receive much more blood flow. They are bulging and can easily rupture. This can lead to life-threatening bleeding.

It is important to protect the easily tearing varicose veins in the esophagus by chewing and chewing food well. Sharp-edged food components should be avoided. Examples include crispbread, rusks, hard cookies, fried potatoes, French fries, chips and spicy fried foods.