Hepatitis C affects the liver and causes inflammation and fibrosis. Also called HCV or hep C, it is a virus that is carried by the blood and other bodily fluids. If hepatitis C infection is left untreated, it can cause damage to the liver and lead to cirrhosis or scarring. Additionally, the infection can affect a person’s diet. This may happen due to loss of appetite, nausea, sore throat, sore mouth, vomiting, and loss of energy. Although there is no special diet with hepatitis C foods, a poor diet can lead to more liver damage.

A healthy diet can help to improve the health of the liver and lower the risk of cirrhosis. Moreover, eating proper hepatitis C foods can make the immune system stronger to fight off the infection. Here are a few foods that are good for the liver and help to fight off hepatitis C.

1. Whole grains

An excellent source of fiber and nutrients, whole grains are recommended to be eaten every day. This is because whole grains retain the high-fiber nutritious parts of the kernel, the bran, and the germ. This is usually removed from white flour, white pasta, and white bread, which makes them unhealthy. Healthy and flavorsome whole grain options include brown rice, quinoa, whole-wheat pasta, oats, barley, and bread. Whole grain bread and oats make for wholesome breakfast options. Additionally, whole grains have complex carbohydrates that help in digestion and boost energy levels.

2. Lean meat

This includes fish, turkey, skinless chicken, lean cuts of meat, and nonfat dairy. These have healthy proteins that help to maintain balanced body weight to quicken the recovery from the infection. Hepatitis C causes damage to the liver and increases the risk of fatty liver disease. With the addition of lean meat to the diet, it becomes easier to keep the liver healthy and lower the risk of fatty liver disease. Fatty red meats are to be avoided completely.

3. Coffee

Although coffee has often received a bad rep when it comes to overall health, it is quite beneficial for those with hepatitis C infection. A cup or two of black coffee can help to respond to hepatitis C treatments. Additionally, it helps to combat further liver damage and prevent hepatitis C symptoms from getting worse. However, avoid having too many cups of coffee as too much caffeine can do more harm than good.

4. Fresh fruits and vegetables

One of the best foods to tackle hepatitis C and its infection is fresh fruits and vegetables. It is recommended to eat a lot of veggies and in as many colors as possible, except for green leafy vegetables. Kale, spinach and many other green vegetables are rich in vitamins B and K, which can be beneficial to combat infection. However, these also contain iron. So, just a moderate consumption of leafy vegetables is recommended. Fruits should be eaten in moderation. Rich in fiber and all essential nutrients, fruits and vegetables not only make the immune system stronger but also help to maintain a healthy body weight. This helps to lower the risk of fatty liver disease, diabetes, and heart diseases, which become more probable with the occurrence of hepatitis C.