JAUNDICE

FOODS THAT HARM

Alcohol

FOODS THAT HEAL

Lean meat

Poultry

Fish

Eggs

Dairy products

Quinoa

Lentils

FOODS TO LIMIT

Fatty and fried foods

Sugary foods

WHO’S AFFECTED

Those who have liver disease, such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, or cancer

Those with blood disorders, such as hemolytic anemia

Those with genetic syndromes, such as Gilbert’s syndrome

Those who have blockage of bile ducts

Infants
A yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes is the hallmark of jaundice
This condition typically occurs when bilirubin, a by-product of bile, builds up in the blood
There are three general types of jaundice: The most common variety is hepatitis, an inflammation of the liver, or another liver disorder
Obstructive jaundice usually results from gallstones or another gallbladder disease
And the least common type involves some sort of abnormality in bilirubin metabolism
Several other rare forms of jaundice are inherited disorders
Newborns also develop infant jaundice during the first few days of life, typically caused by a liver that is not fully functional
There are usually no other symptoms, and the condition often clears up within a week as the liver matures

Nutrition Connection

Some types of jaundice resolve themselves with the help of a nutritious, well-balanced diet, although it may take several weeks
The following guidelines will help: Eat small, frequent meals
Several small meals a day may be more manageable, as those who have jaundice often experience a decrease in appetite and an increase in nausea as the day progresses
In such cases, eat as much as possible at breakfast, then intersperse smaller meals throughout the day with a nutritious snack, such as a milk shake or an enriched liquid drink
60% of all newborns have jaundice
Eat a diet high in protein if you suffer from hepatitis
Consume a healthy diet with sufficient protein daily, from both animal and vegetable sources
The best sources are lean meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, and a combination of legumes, such as lentils and grain products, such as quinoa
Avoid fatty foods
Fried and very fatty foods are difficult to digest
A small amount of fat is acceptable to provide needed calories and add flavor, so opt for fats in dairy and eggs, which are easier to digest than fatty meats or fried foods
Avoid alcohol
Alcohol places added stress on an already sick liver
It may be tolerated after recovery, but some liver disorders mandate total abstinence from alcohol for life
Avoid sweets
Because they may squelch the appetite for more nutritious foods, it is best to avoid sweets