4 Tips to Manage Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C is a disease that affects the functioning of the liver. This disease is caused due to the hepatitis C virus and is one of the leading causes of liver cancer globally. Its severity can vary from person to person. In this article, we shall discuss a few tips that can help manage hepatitis C at home.
How to prevent complications when living with hepatitis C?
One of the biggest concerns when living with any disease or illness is its management. Managing the condition can help prevent other health complications that could be fatal. When it comes to hepatitis C, one of the biggest complications that patients face is liver damage. Here are some tips that can help prevent this as well as promote the overall health of the body:
1. Manage body weight
Most individuals think that weight has no direct correlation to the health of the liver. But that’s actually not true. Having a massive build-up of fat in the body can lead to the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. The chances of developing this condition are high in those suffering from hepatitis C. Not to mention, obesity can also interfere with medication used to keep the symptoms of hep C at bay. It can make them ineffective. The only way to manage and maintain a healthy body weight is to eat well and follow the right exercise routine. Individuals can try brisk walking, swimming, cycling, and more.
2. Steer clear of alcohol
When it comes to hep C and its complications, it is best to steer clear of alcohol completely. This is because alcohol has the ability to destroy and damage the healthy cells in the liver. It can worsen the symptoms and even increase the risk of illnesses and conditions such as liver cirrhosis and cancer. Research has even proved that mild or moderate drinking can also affect the liver negatively. This is why it is best to avoid the consumption of alcohol altogether when suffering from hep C.
3. Move to a clean diet
There is no specific diet that can help ease the signs and symptoms of hepatitis C. But, eating a well-balanced and clean diet can improve the body’s overall health and prevent further complications. It is best to eat whole grain, avoid fatty foods, steer clear of refined sugars, and avoid diet plans to lose weight. It is also recommended to add a wide range of fruits and veggies to your diet. Individuals can break down their foods into smaller meals.
4. Stay hydrated
Staying hydrated has a lot of benefits when it comes to tackling hepatitis C. It can help avoid dehydration and even tackle the side effects of the medications prescribed to treat this condition. It is best to drink at least six to eight glasses of water a day.