for Veterans and the Public
How hepatitis C affects diet - Hepatitis C for Patients
If you have hepatitis, you usually don't need a special diet. Just trying to eat healthy and not being overweight and avoid alcohol is all that is needed.
There are special cases, however, when hepatitis C can affect the diet:
- Patients with cirrhosis
As liver disease progresses, patients may lose their appetite and become so tired they have a hard time eating. They may become very thin and poorly nourished and be less able to fight off disease. They may need to limit salt in their diet to prevent their body from putting fluid into their legs and abdomen. - Other medical conditions and diet
People who have other medical conditions may need other specific changes in their diet. Conditions that warrant specific dietary restrictions include high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes mellitus, high cholesterol, celiac sprue or chronic kidney disease.