
6 Food Changes for Preventing Hep C
Hep C is a virus that targets the liver and it causes fibrosis and inflammation. The virus is carried on by blood and other fluids in the body. Hepatitis C can damage the liver when it goes untreated and there are some food modifications that can be made to lead a healthy lifestyle. Some of the nutrition related tips are mentioned below.
1. Avoid alcohol
Alcohol is overall quite bad for the health, especially for the liver. Hep C affects the liver and therefore it is essential to keep alcohol at bay.
2. Fresh fruits and veggies are your best buds
Eating fresh food is encouraged by health professionals for many different reasons. Fresh vegetables and fruits are loaded with healthy nutrients and vitamins. This is great for keeping the liver healthy. Leafy vegetables such as spinach, kale, and cabbage are good for those dealing with Hepatitis C as they can lessen the fatty acid composition in the liver.
3. Consume adequate protein
Protein is important for the body to function properly. Many food items are rich in protein and can be included to fight viruses such as Hepatitis C. Some of these foods include tofu, beans, nuts, seeds, and fish. The foods rich in protein are also filling in nature and provide ample energy to the body.
4. Include complex carbohydrates in diet
Among other nutrients, carbohydrates are a vital part of a person’s lifestyle. Foods loaded with complex carbohydrates like oatmeal, brown rice, whole rye, and whole wheat can be included in daily meal schedules. Most of these foods are also rich sources of fiber, zinc, and minerals.
5. Non-fat dairy products are good for health
Watching the number of calories that enter the body is essential. Therefore, it is recommended to switch to dairy choices that contain similar nutrients but half the calories and fat.
6. Avoid excessive salt and sugar
Excessive sugar and salt are no good for the body. Foods containing excessive salt such as processed and packaged foods can be harmful for the body and for those who are tackling Hepatitis C.
Consuming foods with high sugar content can increase the risk of diabetes which is not a favorable scenario for Hep C. Therefore, such food items should be avoided at any cost.
Hepatitis C is a common virus and can be harmful if not treated. There are several ways to detect the virus and also to keep its harmful effects at bay. The above mentioned nutrition tips can help people in maintaining good health and minimizing the effects of Hep C.