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Diet is an important part of liver health – and this is especially true for people with chronic liver disease.
Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is a progressive disease that damages the liver’s bile ducts and can lead to liver damage over time.
Although lifestyle changes may not slow the progression of PBC or treat the underlying disease, they can help relieve symptoms and maintain your quality of life. “In addition, lifestyle adjustments have the benefit of preventing or controlling other medical conditions that can affect the liver, including metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease,” says Mayo expert Kymberly D. Watt, MD Clinic and liver specialist
Below explains Dr. Watt the specifics of a PBC-friendly diet.
Tips for a healthy, PBC-friendly diet
By now, most people know that a healthy diet includes a wide variety of foods, including plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, dairy products, protein and healthy fats. For those living with PBC, according to Dr. Watt some additional considerations to keep in mind when it comes to a healthy diet and supporting liver health.
Depending on disease progression and other PBC-related conditions, your healthcare team may recommend specific goals or diet options. According to Dr. For example, in patients with advanced liver scarring, it may be necessary to avoid foods high in sodium to minimize the risk of swelling and fluid retention. “Meanwhile, people with liver cirrhosis may need higher protein intake to combat muscle loss.”
But Dr. Watt says there are a few general guidelines that may be helpful for people with PBC:
Choose anti-inflammatory foods.
Foods with anti-inflammatory properties may have potential benefits for people with chronic inflammatory diseases like PBC, says Dr. Watt. Look for foods containing omega-3 fatty acids such as salmon, sardines, cod, walnuts, chia seeds and leafy greens. Seed oils such as rapeseed or soybean oil also contain these healthy fats. Research has also shown that fermented foods can reduce inflammatory markers in the body after just 10 weeks. Foods like yogurt, kefir, kombucha, kimchi, and cottage cheese all count—but to get the anti-inflammatory benefits, be sure to buy products with live microbes. Look for packaging that lists live and active cultures.
Focus on vitamins A, D, E and K.
It’s not uncommon for people with PBC to be deficient in certain vitamins and minerals, including A, D, E, and K. According to Dr. Watt, these vitamins all require bile to be properly absorbed into the body, which is the case for people with PBC. Maintaining proper levels of these vitamins can be challenging. Although it’s ideal to get all your vitamins and minerals from your daily serving of fruits and vegetables, according to Dr. Watt is often prescribed vitamin supplements to ensure they have the right nutrients. In some cases, you may also need to take calcium, folic acid, or iron supplements. Dr. Watt says your healthcare team may recommend routine blood tests to monitor your levels.
Look for foods rich in calcium.
People with PBC are at higher risk of developing osteoporosis, a condition that causes bones to become thinner and more susceptible to fractures. Calcium can help protect your bones, along with vitamin D, which your body needs to absorb calcium. How much calcium you need depends on a number of factors, including your age and gender. However, in general, adults should not consume more than 2,500 milligrams per day. Foods rich in calcium include dairy products, dark leafy vegetables and certain fish such as sardines and salmon. Even if you eat a balanced diet, your healthcare team may recommend prescription medications or supplements to reduce or treat bone loss.
Enjoy your coffee.
“Coffee contains components beyond caffeine that are beneficial for people with chronic liver disease,” says Dr. Watt. Coffee contains hundreds of different components – including antioxidants and micronutrients such as magnesium, potassium and vitamin E – that can provide a range of health benefits. These benefits include reducing your risk of a number of chronic diseases and even certain types of cancer. Research has shown that black, caffeinated coffee can be particularly beneficial for the liver. “There is evidence that more than three cups of coffee per day is more beneficial than less than three cups per day,” says Dr. Watt. Just make sure that the timing of drinking coffee doesn’t affect your ability to fall asleep.
Avoid alcohol.
Finally, Dr. Watt advises anyone who has underlying chronic liver disease to avoid alcohol. Excessive alcohol consumption can cause liver damage and contribute to a number of chronic liver problems, including steatotic liver disease and cirrhosis. For people without liver disease, moderate alcohol consumption is considered two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women. If you would like to limit your alcohol consumption or simply discuss your options, contact your healthcare team.
A PBC diet that fits your lifestyle and supports your liver
There is no one-size-fits-all diet when it comes to managing your PBC symptoms and risk factors. However, a healthy diet should feel filling, fit well with your lifestyle, and help support your liver. Remember: small changes are probably easier to implement than changing your entire diet overnight. The goal is consistency rather than perfection.
If you have been diagnosed with PBC and would like to learn more about your specific nutritional needs or simply improve your eating habits, talk to your healthcare team.
Mayo Clinic does not endorse any company or product. Advertising revenue supports our nonprofit mission.
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