Hepatic encephalopathy, formerly known as hepatic coma, is a serious condition caused by liver disease. There are many triggers for hepatic encephalopathy, so patients must pay attention to scientific treatment methods and dietary habits in their daily lives. We all know that a balanced diet can improve the health of individuals and help alleviate symptoms in patients.
1. Control fat intake
Diet for hepatic encephalopathy should strictly control the intake of fat. Patients with hepatic encephalopathy should not consume excessive amounts of fat, as it can worsen the burden on the liver and be detrimental to the condition. However, if the patient can tolerate it, there is no need for strict restrictions. The recommended daily intake of fat in the diet is about 30-40g to prevent inadequate energy supply. Fat emulsifiers can be used to increase energy and prevent diarrhea.
2. Control total energy intake
The dietary treatment principle for hepatic encephalopathy patients is to control total energy and protein intake, reducing the production of ammonia in the body. Energy supply should be properly controlled, with a recommended daily supply of 6.7MJ (1600kcal). The diet should mainly consist of carbohydrates, accounting for 75% of the total energy. When unable to eat due to coma, if there is no esophageal varices, nutrients can be supplied through a gastric tube. If there are esophageal varices, intravenous infusion of 20% glucose saline or high-concentration 50% glucose solution (with added vitamin C and energy supplement) should be used to meet energy needs.
3. Control protein intake
For comatose patients, the daily protein intake should be controlled at around 0.5g/kg/person, and the supply should be adjusted every 2-3 days, but the maximum limit should not exceed 1g/kg/person. If there is an increase in blood ammonia levels and neurological symptoms, animal protein should not be given for 2-3 days. After that, the supply can start from 0.2-0.3g/kg/person, with adjustments every 2-3 days. Patients with renal insufficiency or hepatorenal syndrome should strictly limit protein intake, especially animal protein.
4. Ensure sufficient calories
The diet for hepatic encephalopathy should ensure sufficient calories. Comatose liver patients should be provided with a daily energy supply of no less than 1600 calories, so those who are still able to eat should choose refined grains, fruits with low fiber content, and carbohydrate-rich foods such as glucose, jam, and fruit juice.
5. Adequate supply of vitamins
Especially, the supply of vitamin C should be increased to aid in detoxification. A low-protein diet often leads to deficiencies in calcium, iron, vitamin B2, and vitamin K, which should be supplemented outside of the diet. Studies have shown that copper and zinc levels in the brain decrease during liver failure, which may be one of the causes of hepatic coma. Therefore, attention should be paid to the supplementation of zinc and copper in the dietary treatment.
6. Emphasize light, easily digestible, and absorbable foods
The diet structure for hepatic encephalopathy patients should mainly consist of light, easily digestible, and absorbable foods, while also ensuring a balanced and nutritious diet.
7. Water and salt supply
In addition, the supply of water and salt depends on the presence of ascites and edema. If there is ascites or edema, a low-salt or salt-free diet should be followed, and fluid intake should be restricted.
