Introduction
Cirrhosis of the liver is the final stage of many serious liver diseases. It can be caused by alcohol, viral diseases (especially hepatitis B and C) and also by some metabolic diseases. It is a conversion of the liver tissue into connective tissue.
This can then no longer fulfil the function of the liver and the typical symptoms such as skin changes, a feeling of pressure in the right upper abdomen, later also jaundice, accumulation of water in the abdomen (abdominal dropsy) and a decrease in mental abilities increasingly occur. Depending on the cause, a special diet may be advisable to stem the progression of the disease. This is because a complete regression of cirrhosis is usually no longer possible.
These foods are allowed
In general, people with cirrhosis of the liver are better off eating several small meals rather than a few large meals. The diet should be as balanced as possible, rich in vitamins and fiber. Depending on the type and degree of liver cirrhosis, additional recommendations must be followed.
These will be discussed in more detail later. In principle, it is possible for people with liver cirrhosis to eat all foods that are well tolerated. The following foods are particularly recommended:
- All kinds of vegetables
- Legumes, such as peas and lentils, if they are well tolerated
- Fruit of all kinds, except unripe fruit, e.g. green apples and pears
- Milk and dairy products, such as curd cheese and cheese
- Whole grain products in the form of bread and rolls
- Lean meat and fish in moderation
These foods are prohibited
Depending on the cause of the disease, very different foods come into question here. In general, however, special care should be taken to avoid alcohol if possible. This also applies if the liver cirrhosis was not caused by alcohol. Most of the foods listed below are not completely prohibited, but should be avoided if possible:
- Alcohol of any kind
- Sweets that contain a lot of sugar or fat
- Fried fast food, like burgers, french fries and similar
- Marbled or very fatty meat
- Very salty foods, like pickled fish, broth or cured foods
- As little salt as possible in general, instead use spices such as pepper, paprika or herbs to taste
- Foods that bloat strongly or have a long residence time in the stomach and intestines, e.g. cabbage, fresh bread or carbonated drinks
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