Diet for Liver Disease and Treatment of Jaundice

By | November 24, 2008

Jaundice Diet Chart and Remedies for Jaundice

Jaundice is a disease of the liver, which is a result of imbalance in the bile duct. It indicates the malfunctioning of the liver, which results in the discharge of pigments and bile salts. These salts are released into the intestine. The bile salts combine with blood, thereby resulting in yellowing of the skin. Gall stones and inflammation of liver or hepatitis results in blockage of the bile ducts. Jaundice is not a serious disease of its own. Certain underlying conditions, such as hepatitis make conditions worse. Symptoms of jaundice are muscle cramps, fever, yellow discoloration of the eyes and skin, clay colored stools, sensation of itch, liver pain and bitter taste of the mouth.

A balanced low fat diet is helpful in the case of jaundice. Fruit and vegetable juices are of great help, in the initial stages of recovery period. High carbohydrate diet with soft foods is provided after the initial stage. This prevents any kind of strain on the liver. Rice and yoghurt, broken wheat porridge and custard are easily digestible and is helpful for jaundice. Juices of carrot, sugar cane, grapes, tomato and pears are useful. Lime juice with sugar cane juice is useful to speedup the recovery from jaundice. Resistance to infection is poor during jaundice. Hence clean and hygienic food is recommended. Alcohol is completely avoided.
Green leaves, which are well cooked, provide relief from constipation or poor bowel movement and jaundice. Minimum amount of fat is helpful, as liver functioning is impaired.

Jaundice Medicine and Diet During Jaundice Treatment

Avoid saturated fats, such as lard, butter, margarine, clarified butter and so on. Caffeinated beverages and caffeine containing foods with refined foods, such as, refined flour and sugar are not preferred. Radish leaves are also highly beneficial. Wheat tortillas with steamed veggies are good for a meal. A glass of buttermilk is also a part of the meal. Olive oil is recommended to a minimal level. Saturated fats are harmful. Pulses and legumes are restricted, as they putrefy in the intestine, thereby affecting the digestive system.

Chocolates are a big ‘no-no’ during jaundice. Cakes, pastries, cola, ice cream and potato crisps are not recommended. Milkshake with boiled milk is allowed after the first week of infection. Animal foods are difficult to digest, as it requires more bile for production. Citrus fruits are helpful, due to their content of vitamin C. Porridge is yet another soft and bland diet food, which is of great help. Boiled and filtered water is taken. Caffeinated beverages are not preferred. Avoid using raw milk, as infection risk is high. Coconut water is good for recovery and electrolyte supplementation.