Jaundice: Diet, food, and natural cure
Any modification of the diet depends on the underlying cause of the jaundice. With a nutritious, well-balanced diet and rest, viral hepati tis resolves itself—although it may take several weeks. Unfortunately, many people find it difficult to eat at the very time that they need extra calories to help the liver recuperate and regenerate its damaged cells. Many individuals report that their appetite decreases and nausea increases as the day progresses, suggesting that breakfast may be the best tolerated meal.
Eat a diet high in protein.
When recovering from hepatitis, a person should consume a healthy diet with sufficient protein daily, from both animal and vegetable sources. The best sources are lean meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, and a combination of legumes and grain products. If the appetite is poor, intersperse several small meals a day with a nutri tious snack (such as a milk shake or an enriched liquid drink). Fried and very fatty foods, which are difficult to digest, should be avoided; a small amount of fat is acceptable, however, to provide needed calories and add flavor. In general, the fats in dairy products and eggs are easier to digest than those in fatty meats and fried foods.
Avoid sweets and alcohol. Because they may squelch the appetite for more nutritious foods, it is best to avoid sweets. Alcohol should not be consumed, because it places added stress on an already sick liver. It may be tolerated after recovery, but some liver disorders mandate total abstinence from alcohol for life. There is some evidence that herbal preparations based on milk thistle may help treat liver dysfunction.
