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Liver-friendly living

From Treat Yourself Right • 26 June 2009

Many people with HCVHepatitis C virus. manage their symptoms with a range of lifestyle alterations and complementary therapiesA broad range of healing philosophies, approaches, and therapies that Western (conventional) medicine does not commonly use to promote well-being or treat health conditions. Examples include acupuncture, herbs, Traditional Chinese Medicine, etc.. Avoiding or reducing alcohol consumption is key in limiting liverA large organ, located in the upper right abdomen, which assists in digestion by metabolising carbohydrates, fats and proteins, stores vitamins and minerals, produces amino acids, bile and cholesterol, and removes toxins from the blood. damage.

A balanced diet, high in protein andcarbohydrates and low in salt can be an important part of managing active liver disease; vitamin and mineral supplements may also be of use. Fresh fruits and vegetables are rich sources of antioxidants which are important for cell regeneration. Try to eat at least three different coloured fruits or vegetables at each meal. A number of people with liver disease tolerate fats poorly. If you are experiencing a loss of appetite, try eating smaller more frequent meals throughout the day. High protein foods are essential to keep up kilojoules and avoid muscle wasting. Try to include these in every meal. This is easier by varying your sources of protein between lean meat, chicken, fish, low fat dairy products, eggs, nuts, seeds, pulses and legumes (e.g. peas, beans, lentils, etc). Textured vegetable protein products and calcium supplemented soy products, such as milk, yoghurt and cheese are also good choices especially for vegetarians.

With complementary therapies and diets like the liver-cleansing diet it is important to keep your doctor in the information loop. Some alternative medicines can lead to serious liver damage. You and your doctor need to discuss the big-picture issues of your health, your weight and whether any herbs or vitamins might impact on HIV treatment, if you are taking ARVA medication or other substance which is active against retroviruses such as HIV..

Treat Yourself Right

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