Precautions for abnormal liver function during pregnancy

Abnormal liver function during pregnancy requires avoiding high-fat, high sugar, pickled foods, alcoholic beverages, and raw and cold foods. Abnormal liver function may be related to factors such as intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy, viral hepatitis, acute fatty liver during pregnancy, drug-induced liver injury, autoimmune liver disease, etc. Diet should be adjusted according to specific causes.

1. High fat foods

Foods with high levels of saturated fatty acids, such as animal organs, fatty meat, and fried foods, can increase the metabolic burden on the liver. When liver function is abnormal, bile secretion may be insufficient, and a high-fat diet can easily lead to impaired fat digestion and absorption, causing bloating and diarrhea. You can choose low-fat and high-quality protein sources such as steamed fish and skinless chicken, and use olive oil instead of animal oil when cooking.

2. High sugar foods

Foods with high refined sugar content, such as cakes, milk tea, and candied fruits, can increase the pressure on liver glycogen synthesis. Insulin resistance in pregnancy already exists, and excessive sugar may induce diabetes in pregnancy. It is recommended to replace low glycemic index foods such as oats and whole wheat bread, and choose fruits with less fructose such as strawberries and apples.

3. Pickled foods

Salted vegetables, cured meat, smoked fish, etc. contain nitrite and excessive sodium salts, which need to be detoxified and metabolized by the liver. The increase of blood volume during pregnancy aggravates the load on the kidney, and high salt diet tends to lead to water and sodium retention. Fresh vegetables can be blanched for a short period of time and then cold mixed to retain nutrients while avoiding excessive salt intake.

4. Alcoholic Beverages

Any alcoholic beverage can affect fetal development through the placenta, and the alcohol metabolite acetaldehyde directly damages liver cells. Drinking alcohol during pregnancy may lead to fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, manifested as growth retardation or neurological abnormalities. When cooking, cooking wine should also be avoided. Lemon juice and apple cider vinegar can be used as substitutes to remove fishy odors.

5. Raw and cold foods

such as sashimi, semi cooked steak, oysters, etc. may carry parasites or pathogens, making them more susceptible to infection when liver function declines. Raw and cold foods can also stimulate the gastrointestinal mucosa, affecting nutrient absorption. All meat and poultry should be thoroughly cooked, vegetables and fruits should be thoroughly rinsed with running water, and dairy products should be pasteurized.

Abnormal liver function during pregnancy requires a daily intake of high-quality protein, such as egg white, tofu, low-fat milk, etc., to help repair liver cells. Moderate increase in coarse grains and dark vegetables rich in vitamin B family can help improve substance metabolism. Pay attention to eating small and frequent meals to avoid overeating, and take a walk after meals to promote digestion. Regularly monitor indicators such as transaminase and bile acids, and seek medical attention promptly if symptoms such as skin itching and darkened urine color occur. Maintain a regular schedule and good mood, avoid using non essential medications to reduce liver burden.