What foods should patients with portal hypertension avoid?
Apr 17, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Tian Hongbo
Introduction
Portal hypertension generally refers to high blood pressure in the portal vein, a condition caused by prolonged elevation of pressure within the portal venous system. Foods that patients should commonly avoid include chili peppers, compressed biscuits, pork liver, shrimp, and pickled vegetables. Patients with portal hypertension should maintain a healthy lifestyle and receive standardized treatment under medical supervision. Strictly following the doctor's instructions during treatment can help improve the condition.
Portal hypertension generally refers to increased pressure in the portal vein, a condition resulting from prolonged elevation of pressure within the portal venous system. Patients should avoid certain foods, including chili peppers, compressed biscuits, pork liver, shrimp, and pickled vegetables.
1. Chili Peppers
Elevated portal vein pressure can cause symptoms such as reduced appetite, nausea, and vomiting due to gastrointestinal discomfort. Chili peppers contain capsaicin, a spicy compound that is considered an irritant. Consuming them may further impair digestive function and negatively affect disease recovery.
2. Compressed Biscuits
Patients should also avoid compressed biscuits because they are hard and difficult to chew. When passing through the esophagus, these biscuits can create significant friction against the esophageal mucosa, increasing the risk of rupture in the already fragile portal veins.
3. Pork Liver
Diet should remain light and bland. Therefore, foods high in fat—such as pork liver—should be avoided. High-fat intake may lead to increased lipid deposition in the bloodstream and place additional metabolic strain on the liver, potentially worsening the condition.
4. Shrimp
Shrimp is a low-fat, high-protein food. However, patients with portal hypertension must strictly limit protein intake. Excessive protein consumption can lead to elevated ammonia levels in the body, increasing the risk of hepatic encephalopathy.
5. Pickled Vegetables
Pickled vegetables are high in salt. Regular consumption can disrupt metabolic processes, leading to water and sodium retention, which may further elevate portal pressure and exacerbate the condition or reduce treatment effectiveness.
Patients with portal hypertension should maintain a healthy lifestyle and follow standardized medical treatments under a physician's guidance. Close cooperation with healthcare providers during treatment contributes significantly to improved outcomes.
