Viral hepatitis is a disease that is characterized by the inflammation of the liver. An estimated 400,000 to 500,000 Georgians currently have some form of hepatitis. More than five million people have some form of viral hepatitis in the United States. The three most common types are A, B and C. Hepatitis B and C can lead to serious, permanent liver damage, sometimes resulting in death. People with chronic hepatitis should not take large doses of vitamin A, which can be toxic to the liver.
Vitamin E appears to have beneficial effects on the liver.
People with hepatitis C should avoid chemical fumes and other environmental toxins such as solvents and pesticides as much as possible. Many nutritionists recommend a diet rich in whole grains, fruits and vegetables, with a minimum of chemical additives. People with liver-related encephalopathy may want to limit their protein consumption to avoid the creation of byproducts that can be toxic to the brain. Foods with high salt, sugar or fat content, such as cheese, pickles, fast food and processed foods, stress your liver. Please consult with your HIV doctor before starting on any hepatitis treatment to make sure that your hepatitis and HIV medications are able to work together.