HEPATITIS

In this disease, liver is inflammed and degeneration may have occurred. There are four types of hepatitis - A, B, C and D. In all these, the symptoms are similar. The symptoms are loss of appetite, nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, fever and loss of weight. Jaundice follows, if these symptoms are not treated promptly by diet modification.

DIET:

In hepatitis, the main therapy consists of nutritionally adequate diet and bed rest. The aim is to ensure recovery of damaged tissues and to prevent further damage.

In the early stages parenteral fluids or tube feeding may be necessary, if nausea and vomiting is severe.

Apetite is normally poor. So it is crucial that meals are attractive, small and frequent - 5 to 6 meals at regular intervals are suggested. 

It is advisable to follow the tips given below:-

• Give a full liquid diet in six small feeds, as soon as the patient is able to eat.
• Follow it by a soft fiber-restricted diet and then a normal diet.
• A high calorie, high protein diet is given, if there is extensive weight loss.
• A low fat is given in the beginning and gradually move is made towards normal fat intake as the biliary tract obstruction is cured.
• Adequate calorie supply and glycogen synthesis are ensured by giving a high carbohydrate diet.
• Vegetables with strong flavors, spicy foods, as also rich desserts are avoided as these may affect food tolerance adversely.