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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

    Beyond the Diet

    Treatment and lifestyle changes will vary
    Many conditions can cause jaundice, so it’s best to consult a medical professional