Care and diet in liver problems

In the elderly, problems related to the digestive system are very frequent, either due to the evolution of pre-existing problems, or due to the changes that the digestive tract undergoes over time. Specifically, liver problems in the elderly are the result of chronic diseases. For example, it is reached by an active chronic hepatitis or by long-term ingestion of toxins such as alcohol.

These liver problems will complicate coexisting diseases such as kidney or heart failure, and must also be taken into account for the effect and metabolism of multiple drugs.

Tips to decrease liver problems

People with liver problems should follow a special diet to protect the liver. In general, there is no specific diet or strict limitations to avoid these problems, except for the absolute suppression of alcohol consumption. However, it is important to adopt a complete and balanced diet, both in calories and nutrients (proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins).

Protein restriction

In more extreme cases, such as liver failure or cirrhosis, a restriction of protein intake is necessary to avoid the development of hepatic encephalopathy (a disorder in which the liver is not able to "clear" the products of metabolism proteins, and manifested with mental confusion). In this sense, you should avoid red meat and get the majority of proteins from the intake of white meat and fish, and from egg whites, leaving the recommended amounts at the medical discretion.

Fluid retention

A relatively common complication in cirrhosis is fluid retention. This retention can lead to edema and swelling in the legs and abdomen (ascites). In these cases, the relative or absolute sodium restriction (common salt and homemade salty products and, above all, industrial ones) and the limitation of fluid intake are recommended. Salt can be substituted for small amounts of pepper or aromatic herbs. It should be the doctor who decides how strict the restriction of salt and fluids should be in patients with edema and ascites.