DIETARY MANAGEMENT OF LIVER DISEASE

The liver is an essential organ in the human system that performs variety of functions which are detoxification, excretion, anabolic and catabolic reaction and also storage. The liver also has a remarkable ability of regeneration if damaged. Liver disease mostly can be life threatening. There are several common types of liver disease and they include; Alcoholic Liver Disease (ALD) which is as a result of excessive alcohol consumption, non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) this is the accumulation of fat in the liver, Liver Cirrhosis ;involves scarring of the liver due to chronic alcohol consumption or viral hepatitis, Liver Cancer, Fatty Liver Disease, Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC), Hemochromatosis, Wilson’s Disease (A genetic disorder that leads to copper accumulation in the liver) etc.

Factors associated with liver disease are autoimmune hepatitis, infection, drugs, alcohol, Type 2 diabetes, hyperlipidaemia. Also the common signs and symptoms related to liver disease include; chronic fatigue, jaundice, dark urine, itchy skin? Oedema, nausea and vomiting, pale or bloody or tar colored stool, abdominal swelling also known as ascites etc.

When it comes to nutrition in liver disease, many studies have shown that there is  malnutrition prevalence among liver disease patients and it is I’m the range of 65-90%. There is also a direct relationship between advancing liver disease and malnutrition. The nutritional management of liver disease involves directing the dietary recommendations to the specific type and stage of liver disease. Some general guidelines include; Ensuring adequate energy intake, aim for 0.8-1.2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight from sources like lean meats, fish, eggs, dairy, also reduce fat intake, especially saturated and trans fats, adequate hydration is very essential, especially for patients with cirrhosis or liver failure.

It is very important to consult a healthcare provider or registered dietitian to develop a personalized nutrition plan for liver disease management.

Read more on: KIDNEY DISEASE

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