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Eating, Diet, & Nutrition for Cirrhosis

What should I eat if I have cirrhosis?

If you have cirrhosis, you should eat a healthy, well-balanced diet. Talk with your doctor, a dietitian, or a nutritionist about healthy eating.

What should I avoid eating and drinking if I have cirrhosis?

You should avoid eating raw or undercooked shellfish, fish, and meat. Bacteria or viruses from these foods may cause severe infections in people with cirrhosis.

Your doctor may recommend limiting salt in your diet and limiting your intake of fats or protein.

You should completely stop drinking alcohol because it can cause more liver damage.

Last Reviewed March 2018
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This content is provided as a service of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), part of the National Institutes of Health. The NIDDK translates and disseminates research findings to increase knowledge and understanding about health and disease among patients, health professionals, and the public. Content produced by the NIDDK is carefully reviewed by NIDDK scientists and other experts.