If you have cirrhosis, stop drinking immediately because alcohol increases the rate at which the condition progresses, regardless of the cause.
If you're taking over-the-counter or prescription medications, tell your GP or pharmacist, because the liver processes some medicines.
Diet
One of the symptoms of end-stage liver disease is an abnormal accumulation of fluid in the abdomen, called ascites. If you have ascites, follow a low-sodium (salt) diet of no more than 1000mg per day, or 500mg if possible. This will reduce the amount of fluid in your body.
It's also important to eat a well-balanced diet. You may need extra energy and protein. Cirrhosis causes damage that stops the liver working properly, so it may be unable to store glycogen, the carbohydrate that provides short-term energy. When this happens, the body uses its own muscle tissue to provide energy between meals, which leads to muscle wasting and weakness.
Healthy snacking between meals can top up your calories and protein, which helps to preserve muscles and keep them strong. Improved nourishment will also make you feel better. Try to eat regularly – about every two to three hours.
More information
For more lifestyle advice, go to the British Liver Trust's factsheet on Looking after yourself.
