What is hepatitis C?
Hepatitis C is an infection of the liver which is brought about by the hepatitis C virus (HCV). Although it is a short-term disease, more than half of the people who become infected with the virus develop a chronic infection that may not manifest any symptoms, not until the infection reaches an advanced stage in which the liver becomes significantly damaged (Hepatitis C, 2020).
What causes it?
HCV is a blood-borne virus. Therefore, to become infected, the person has to come in contact with something that has come in contact with an infected person’s blood (Hepatitis C, 2022). HCV-contaminated blood has to enter the bloodstream of an uninfected person to cause hepatitis C.
• It can be acquired from an infected mother to her baby.
• It can be acquired through sharing of needles for injecting drugs.
• It can be transmitted through the transfusion of blood and other blood products.
• The use of improperly sterilized medical equipment, such as needles and syringes can act as a mode of transmission of the virus as well.
• Indulging in unsafe sexual practices can become a reason for the acquisition of the virus as well.
What are the complications associated with hepatitis C?
Cirrhosis (scarring of the liver), liver cancer, and liver failure are complications associated with chronic infection of hepatitis C.
How can you manage the symptoms of hepatitis C naturally?
If you have been diagnosed with hepatitis C, following a healthy diet along with maintaining a healthy weight is what you should aim for to control the symptoms of hepatitis C. If you do wish to take supplements or other natural herbal therapies to curb the symptoms, then do so under the guidance of your healthcare provider.
The following items are deemed to have anti-HCV, hepatoprotective, and anti-inflammatory effects (Davis, 2021):
• Bupleurum
• Colloidal silver
• Dandelion root
• Green tea
• Licorice root
• Milk thistle
• Probiotics
• Schisandra
• Turmeric
• Vitamin D
• Zinc
Be careful with the following supplements as they can put your liver at risk.
These include:
• black cohosh
• chaparral
• comfrey
• germander
• greater celandine
• kava
• red yeast rice extract
• shark cartilage
• skullcap
• valerian
• yohimbe
Additional Things to Understand.
There are a few things that goes without saying that will likely benefit a patient with hepatitis C in the long run. Quitting alcohol is of tremendous benefit as alcohol is directly toxic to the liver cells. Additionally, managing your weight, especially if you are overweight or have type 2 diabetes; this could predispose you for having fatty liver disease which increases your chance for cirrhosis. Really consider eating natural, unprocessed foods and reduce your salt and sugar intake. Sleep is another component as it is vitally important to your overall health when managing hepatitis C. Poor sleep hygiene is linked to heart disease and several mood disorders. You should try to achieve 8 to 9 hours of sleep each night. Sometimes medications to help with sleep could be prescribed by your provider.
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The contents of this website are based upon the views of Dr. Walker and his experience. This product is not intended as medical advice nor to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The information is likewise not to replace the advice of a qualified health care provider. The information provided herein is intended as a sharing of general knowledge only and is not intended to be, nor is it, medical advice or a substitute for medical advice. That being said, please consult your healthcare provider before using supplements or providing supplements to children under the age of 18. If you have or suspect you have, a specific medical condition or disease, please consult your healthcare provider.
© Dr. Dennis D. Walker 2022. All Rights Reserved