In short
A cirrhosis diet is usually low in sodium (under 2 g a day), provides enough protein to prevent muscle loss, spreads food across 5–6 small meals, includes fibre, and excludes alcohol completely. Fluid limits apply only when your doctor advises them. Requirements vary by disease stage, so always consult a hepatologist or dietitian before making major changes.
Seven core guidelines
Low-sodium diet
Limiting salt intake prevents fluid retention, swelling and ascites. Patients should consume less than 2 g of sodium per day.
High-protein intake
Adequate protein prevents muscle loss and weakness. Include eggs, fish, chicken, dals, beans, milk and paneer.
Small & frequent meals
Eating 5–6 small meals daily helps maintain energy levels and prevents low blood sugar in cirrhosis patients.
Complete alcohol avoidance
Alcohol accelerates liver damage and must be avoided completely at all stages of cirrhosis.
Balanced nutrition
A balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, whole grains and healthy fats supports overall liver function.
Fluid intake guidance
Fluid intake may need restriction in advanced cirrhosis with ascites. Always follow doctor or dietitian advice.
High-fibre intake
Adequate fibre supports digestion and helps reduce toxin build-up. Include whole grains, fruits, vegetables, dals, beans and seeds.
Foods to include and foods to limit
Include
- Eggs, fish, chicken, dals, beans, milk and paneer for protein
- Fruits and vegetables
- Whole grains, seeds and other high-fibre foods
- Healthy fats as part of a balanced diet
Avoid or limit
- Alcohol — in any amount
- Added salt and high-sodium foods
- Junk food
- Long gaps between meals
Tracking sodium and fluids
Because small changes in sodium or fluid balance can trigger complications like ascites, many people with cirrhosis find it useful to tally sodium in milligrams and fluids in millilitres through the day. The Liverlytics app includes a diet & fluid counter for exactly this.
Diet is one part of cirrhosis treatment. Next, learn how clinicians score severity with MELD 3.0.