Can patients with cirrhosis eat sea buckthorn?

Jul 02, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

My grandmother has cirrhosis of the liver, but she really wants to eat sea buckthorn. Can patients with cirrhosis eat sea buckthorn?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Shen Yonghua
Patients with cirrhosis can consume sea buckthorn, but in moderation. Sea buckthorn offers liver-protective properties and helps prevent digestive system diseases. It is rich in organic acids such as malic acid and oxalic acid, which can alleviate drug toxicity, promote healing of damaged liver cells, reduce transaminase levels, and inhibit liver cell inflammation. Sea buckthorn also contains high levels of vitamin C and has a strong acidic nature. For patients with cirrhosis complicated by portal hypertension and excessive gastric acid secretion, excessive intake may increase gastric acid production, potentially damaging the gastric mucosa and even inducing gastrointestinal bleeding. Therefore, patients with cirrhosis should control their intake of sea buckthorn to avoid risks associated with overconsumption. Additionally, patients with cirrhosis should observe other dietary restrictions, such as abstaining from alcohol and avoiding spicy or irritating foods, to support liver health.