Can a person with Hep-C use protein supplements?

Question

Is anyone out there weight lifting and using protein powders,supplements energy bars and drinks etc with no adverse effects?

Answer 1

As long as the Hepatits C is inactive, and there is no ongoing liver inflammation - like elevated liver enzyme tests or jaundice, and as long as the liver is functioning well, there is no reason that protein supplements cannot be used.
However, if there is active inflammation, with cirrhosis or liver failure, proteins in any forms should be restricted, as a failing liver cannot process the excess protein, excess ammonia is produced and this can cause hepatic coma, leading to death.

Answer 2

I tend to differ with the doctors advice a bit. Protein is made from meat. (most) In which case, I'd advise against it for anyone who has damage scale of 2 and 0. (grade and stage)

Not all people with HCV will have issues with encepholpathy (sp?) but to risk even more or a chance with added protein would be the question.

Soy protein might have more benefits and less dangers than that of regular protein.

The issue of soy however, is that it can, like HCV affect the thyroid.

I would advise not to add protein unless derived from beans. (pinto, black and other beans).

The other issue is that supplements and powders are supposed to be absorbed quicker by the bodys digestion...thing is, with hcv everything works slower. Chances are powders and supplements can "back up" and become toxic, this is how one developes encepholpathy. (it can be minimal to severe).

Again, I am not a doctor, but I did have HCV for almost 30 years before having a SVR. Many toxcities caused issues, not just with the brain, but other organs as well. Even good things can be bad and potentially dangerous, as HCV is not just a liver disease, it affects every part of a person.

To be safe, I would change the diet a bit more to add vegetables that will help with protein intake and drink more water.

Answer 3

No! That would be somewhat dangerous. When you have any type of liver failure or disease, proteins are accumulating so you are supposed to keep them low.