How to create a menu for liver diseases
Liver diseases, such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), steatosis, or fibrosis, require special attention to diet. A proper menu can significantly improve health, reduce the strain on the liver, and prevent the progression of the disease. Let’s consider the key principles of creating a menu for liver diseases and what foods should be included or excluded from the diet.
Key principles of nutrition for liver diseases
- Balance. Your menu should provide the body with all the necessary nutrients. The liver plays a key role in the metabolism of fats, carbohydrates, and proteins, so it’s essential that the diet is balanced.
- Fat restriction. Excessive consumption of fats, especially saturated and trans fats, negatively affects the liver. It is recommended to limit the intake of fatty foods such as fried dishes, fatty meats, butter, and margarine.
- Regular meals. Eat small portions 4-5 times a day. This will help to avoid overloading the liver and improve metabolic processes.
- Limiting sugar and simple carbohydrates. Sugar and foods rich in simple carbohydrates can contribute to fat accumulation in the liver. Switch to whole grain products and limit the intake of sweets, fizzy drinks, and white bread.
- Increase fibre intake. Fibre promotes better digestion and helps to remove toxins from the body. Include more vegetables, fruits, legumes, and whole grain products in your diet.
Foods to include in the diet
- Vegetables and fruits. These are sources of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Especially beneficial are broccoli, spinach, pumpkin, carrots, apples, pears, and citrus fruits. They promote detoxification and support liver function.
- Whole grain products. Brown rice, buckwheat, oatmeal, and quinoa provide the body with complex carbohydrates and fibre, which are necessary for normal digestion.
- Fish and lean meats. Choose lean meats such as chicken or turkey, as well as fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which reduce inflammation in the liver.
- Low-fat dairy products. Kefir, yoghurt, and fermented baked milk not only improve digestion but also contain protein necessary for liver cell recovery.
- Vegetable oils. Olive, flaxseed, and rapeseed oils are rich in unsaturated fats, which support liver health. However, they should be consumed in moderation.
- Nuts and seeds. These are sources of healthy fats, proteins, and antioxidants. They support the immune system and help cleanse the body.
Foods to avoid
- Alcohol. Even in small doses, alcohol can be harmful to the liver. It promotes inflammation and fat accumulation in liver cells.
- Foods high in sugar. Sweets, cakes, and sugary drinks should be excluded from the diet as they contribute to fat build-up in the liver.
- Fatty meats and fried foods. These foods can lead to increased cholesterol levels and fat tissue growth in the liver.
- Canned and processed foods. They often contain high amounts of salt, sugar, and artificial additives that negatively affect the liver.
If you’re unsure about your choice of foods or don’t know how to create the right menu, it’s recommended to consult a dietitian. At the “Doctor Bezugla Clinical Dietology Centre,” they can help you develop a personalised nutrition plan that takes into account your condition and ensures effective liver support.