Nutrition for jaundice

Some forms of jaundice are due to diseases of the liver or bile. These can be significantly influenced by a change in diet. The most important risk factors for liver disease among foods are alcohol and fatty foods.

The healthiest diet for the liver and other internal organs is the so-called “light whole food”. This is a mixed diet consisting of easily digestible foods that contain all essential substances but do not provoke intolerances. For example, more dietary fiber should be consumed, as found in fruits, vegetables, legumes or grains.

Also the intake of unsaturated fatty acids should be increased, the amount of saturated fatty acids should be reduced. Additionally, small and frequent meals have a gentle effect on numerous digestive organs. Alcohol is the most frequent cause for chronic liver diseases in Germany.

Already quantities starting from 10g of pure alcohol daily can damage the liver in the long run. This amount corresponds to about a quarter liter of beer. After some time, the alcohol can cause a fatty liver to develop.

With immediate alcohol withdrawal, the liver can still recover at this stage. Fatty liver is characterized by an already enlarged and often palpable structure in the upper abdomen. Only with continued alcohol consumption can chronic inflammation in the fatty liver lead to cell remodeling and liver cirrhosis, which involves the loss of function of vital metabolic processes in the liver. If the inflammation of the liver is already taking place, it is also recommended to refrain from alcohol, even if it is not the cause of the inflammation.Even in moderation, alcohol consumption is not advisable, since every glass of beer attacks the liver cells and can also damage them.

Prophylaxis

A prophylaxis or a method protecting against jaundice (icterus) is not known. Of course, it is important to avoid the outbreak of the triggering disease.

Prognosis

The prognosis of jaundice also depends on the underlying disease. Jaundice itself is not dangerous, but rather unpleasant due to possible itching. However, diseases that cause jaundice can threaten life.

Tumorous diseases are the most threatening cause of jaundice. As mentioned above, the diagnosis is made very late. The tumor is usually so advanced that it already hinders the outflow of bile acid.

In the case of pancreatic cancer, the 5-year survival rate is 0% if the tumor could not be removed surgically beforehand, otherwise it is 15%. For bile duct carcinoma, the 5-year survival rate is 40%. Further information also under our topic: pancreatic cancer hepatitis of the liver (hepatitis) of group A and B usually heal by themselves, the success rate of the treatment of group C is 95% if the therapy is carried out for 24 weeks. Further information also under our topic: Hepatitis