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Types of Food Recommended for Jaundice Patients

When recovering from jaundice, proper nutrition plays a critical role in supporting liver function and accelerating healing. Jaundice occurs when there’s an excess buildup of bilirubin in the blood, often due to impaired liver function. To help ease the liver’s workload and promote its repair, certain foods can be especially beneficial, while others should be avoided. In this guide, we’ll explore the best foods to eat when you have jaundice, focusing on easy-to-digest, nutrient-dense options that support detoxification and reduce liver inflammation. Whether you’re experiencing mild symptoms or undergoing medical treatment, choosing the right foods can make a meaningful difference in your recovery. Read more in detail –
  • Early Stage of Hepatitis:

In the initial stages of hepatitis, patients often experience mild fever, body aches, and nausea. Staying hydrated is crucial during this time. It’s recommended to drink plenty of water and light juices like lemon juice, adding a pinch of salt and some sugar or glucose if desired. Many people are advised to take glucose at this stage to help with energy.

For patients who experience persistent vomiting and cannot tolerate any food or liquids, hospitalization for saline or glucose infusions may be necessary for a few days until their symptoms stabilize.

  • Post-Initial Phase:
As nausea and vomiting start to subside, jaundice may appear to increase, but most patients begin to tolerate food. At this point, a light diet rich in carbohydrates is recommended. Easily digestible foods, such as rice and moong dal khichdi, are ideal. Lightly salted and mildly spiced foods can add flavor without irritating the digestive system. Small amounts of oil for tempering are permissible, and consuming fruits is also encouraged to maintain hydration. Glucose supplementation is typically unnecessary once patients can tolerate food.
  • Recovery Phase:

As bilirubin levels gradually decline, patients often regain their appetite. It’s essential to keep them hydrated and slowly reintroduce a variety of foods into their diet. At this stage, it’s important not to restrict the patient’s intake if they feel hungry, as this is a critical recovery period. Many make the mistake of providing overly bland or restrictive diets at this time, which offers no additional benefit.

Most foods are tolerated well, although very oily dishes should be avoided. Patients who consume non-vegetarian diets may gradually reintroduce lean, non-spicy, and non-oily meats once jaundice has significantly reduced.

  • General Guidelines During Jaundice:
Ensure the patient does not experience constipation, as this can hinder recovery. If necessary, use a doctor-prescribed syrup of lactulose to maintain regularity. For more details connect with us.