Hepatomegaly or swollen liver can occur due to conditions such as hepatitis, alcoholic liver disease, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and cancer. To effectively treat an enlarged liver, it is important to address the underlying cause. Once the cause of the problem is established, the doctor can determine the best treatment which may include making dietary changes and exercise. It is worth noting that exercise and diet aimed at weight reduction can help in the management of a liver swelling caused by fatty liver disease. But, what does an enlarged liver diet entail?

Special Diet for Enlarged Liver

Carbohydrate Foods

Recent studies suggest that moderate and low carbohydrate is beneficial for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) which involves enlargement of the liver which can lead to scarring and liver failure. Studies also indicate that a whole-grain based diet helps to reduce abdominal fat which is linked to fatty liver disease. The aim should not be excluding carbohydrates but consumption of high fiber foods. Enlarged liver diet should include vegetables, fruits, whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, oatmeal, legumes like kidney beans, pinto beans and lentils, and nonfat or low-fat dairy products like plain yogurt.

Omega-3 Fats

The right choice of dietary fat can help to manage an enlarged liver. Studies indicate that consumption of saturated fats and trans-fats such as animal fats and shortening as well as low omega-3 fatty acids intakes can worsen non alcoholic fatty liver disease.  

Some studies have found that taking omega-3 supplements reduces the fatty liver condition. And although the studies were based on using omega-3 supplements, increasing intake of foods rich in omega-3 like fatty fish such as tuna, sardines and salmon, chia seeds and flaxseed can also help.

Protein Sources

Change of intake of protein is not recommended in case of enlarged liver. However, lean protein such as fish, skinless poultry, eggs and plant proteins like beans and nuts are recommended.

Diet Patterns

Eating the Mediterranean diet which is composed of unprocessed whole foods, and is largely plant based can help in the treatment of enlarged liver. The Mediterranean diet includes vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains, fish, olive oil and wine as well as moderate intake of dairy products like milk, cheese and yogurt. Meat is only included in small amounts. Excluding the wine, the Mediterranean diet has been found to help manage NAFLD. It is worth noting that the enlarged liver diet is beneficial when looked at from the perspective of the whole diet as opposed to individual food items.

Warnings and Precautions

Liver enlargement can be the result of a number of causes such as mononucleosis, hepatitis, toxins, cancer and genetics. Thediet for enlarged liver is therefore not necessarily therapeutic but is meant to provide proper nutrition and preventing complications like malnutrition and fluid retention. In case you have a swollen liver, consult a doctor for tests and advice on the best treatment. Your doctor will also refer you to a dietician for guidance on dietary changes to optimize your nutrient intake.   

More Enlarged Liver Diet Tips

Any dietary changes are intended to help protect the liver from further damage. They include:

• Avoid table sugar and sweetened beverages like soda and juice.
• Avoid bread, noodles, bagels, cakes, pastries, pasta, cookies, and pastries.
• Eliminate ready-made desserts.
• Avoid dairy products other than yogurt and organic cheese.
• Avoid high fat foods such as fried food because your compromised liver does not have full capacity to digest the fat.

Home Remedies for Enlarged Liver

• Drink Plenty of Water

Drinking lots of water hydrates the body and flushes out harmful toxins. This can help reduce liver swelling besides other health problems.

• Avoid Caffeine

Keep away from coffee, mocha, tea, and other similar products containing caffeine. Studies show that caffeine can trigger liver swelling.

• Bitter Gourd Juice for Liver Swelling

Mix half a cup bitter gourd juice with a pinch of salt and drink once daily.

• Leaves and Stem of White Radish 

Drink juice extracted from 50 grams of white radish leaves and stems. You may add a little sugar to make it more palatable.

• Dandelion Root

Dandelion is a medicinal plant and natural detoxifier. Scientific studies show that dandelion root can protect liver cells and help in the recovery of a fatty liver by reducing the fat stored within the liver and decreasing cholesterol levels.

• Green Tea

Many studies show that green tea is a healthy beverage that also helps with enlarged liver.

• Limit or Stop Alcohol Intake

Many studies show that excessive alcohol intake damages liver. This can lead to fatty liver disease and liver cirrhosis. Avoid reduce alcohol intake to stop further liver swelling.

• Licorice and Honey

You can make an enlarged liver home remedy by mixing one tablespoon of licorice powder with two teaspoons of honey. Take this mixture daily once daily.

• Garlic

Include garlic in your enlarged liver diet. Garlic has many benefits in the body. It purifies blood, eliminates toxins from the body and helps in the management of liver swelling. Eat one or two peeled garlic cloves in the morning before breakfast.

• Spearmint Juice

Taking spearmint juice for 10 days can greatly help your swollen liver. You may add a little sugar to the juice.

• Lime Juice and Papaya Seeds

Lime juice mixed with papaya seeds daily is another effective remedy for enlarged liver. Drink it once or twice daily for best results.

• Indian Aloe, Ginger and Black Salt

A mixture of Indian aloe vera pulp from one leaf, some grated ginger and a pinch of black salt make an effective home remedy for enlarged or swollen liver. Take the mixture first thing in the morning for 10 days to achieve the best results.

Exercise

Exercise helps you to maintain good overall health and a healthy weight. The best exercise routine should optimize metabolism and prevent accumulation of fat in the liver which may lead to liver enlargement.

Enlargement of the liver may cause a number of health problems. It should therefore be prevented or treated without delay. Using one or a combination of these home remedies can give you great results.

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Diet for enlarged liver includes whole grain, omega-3 fat, fresh vegetables and fruits, reduced fat and sugar, etc. Read for more home remedies.

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