Hepatitis C involves inflammation of the liver, which can result in a slew of related health issues and symptoms. Some of the symptoms of this chronic inflammatory disease include:   

• Fatigue and lethargy 

• Pain near the location of the liver 

• Low-grade fever 

• Nausea and/or vomiting 

• Dizziness or loss of balance 

• Difficulty with attention, focus, or concentration 

It makes sense that a diet rich in foods that help alleviate inflammation and promote wellness would make sense. In fact, diet can help many living with Hepatitis C manage their symptoms and live an improved quality of life with this virus.  

Hepatitis C and diet

If you want to effectively manage the symptoms of Hepatitis C, try limiting foods in your diet that are known to cause inflammation and swelling. Try to avoid chemicals and heavily processed foods that may contain ingredients that could cause symptoms to flare up. Many experts recommend a diet that is low in saturated fats and sugars, both of which are known contributors to chronic inflammatory diseases.  

However, there is some good news: you can reduce inflammation with certain foods, too. That is, by incorporating some specific foods known to have an anti-inflammatory effect and curb the symptoms of Hepatitis C and other inflammatory conditions.  

Add these foods to your daily diet: 

• Oily fish, like tuna, salmon, and sardines 

• Olive oil 

• Blueberries, raspberries, cranberries, strawberries, and tart cherries 

• Tumeric 

• Green Tea 

• Kale 

• Kelp 

• Sweet Potatoes 

Eat more of these foods to improve symptoms of Hepatitis C and talk to healthcare providers about other natural and holistic treatment options that may be available to you.  

Some other tips for managing symptoms with diet include these: 

• Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water. Experts in the field suggest at least six glasses each day. 

• Develop an eating schedule around specific mealtimes- and stick to it.  

• Try to buy and eat organic food whenever possible. These are foods grown and raised without the chemicals and toxins in other products.  

• Opt for sources of lean protein instead of fattier ones.  

• Skip the salt and season food with sodium-free choices, like herbs and spices.  

• Choose wholesome, unprocessed foods for your regular diet.  

• Stay away from alcohol.  

Use these tips to manage the symptoms of Hepatitis C and alleviate inflammation of the liver. Talk to your doctor or provider about more holistic health practices that you can take to reduce the severity and frequency of symptoms from your condition.   

Find out more about Hepatitis C management.