The Natural Way

Tests such as ultrasound, CT scans or a tissue sample of the liver, called a biopsy, may be suggested. The current medical approach for treating C is a combination of medicines, namely a special interferon and antiviral medication. While better than the treatment used to be, some suffer from long term side effects.

Remember, there are three types of Hepatitis C namely Types 1, 2 and 3. Type 1 is the hardest to deal with as its hold onto life is powerful. You and your doctor should talk it over and make a treatment decision together. Many doctors are comfortable with trying a natural approach first, especially if there is little existing damage to the liver.

Common sense tells you if your health improves from good nutrition, a virus like Hepatitis C won't do so well. You will want to maximize nutrition and decrease inflammation so a low glycemic food plan is desirable.

Next is to cause the immune system to work like a well oiled machine by adding immune support supplements like mushroom extracts or the herb, astragalus. Supplements such as an iron free multi with minerals, fish oils and an anti-inflammatory like resveratrol are good choices.

The three most important supplements are milk thistle with artichoke (heals the liver), N acetyl cysteine (NAC600) and naringin (birth control for the C virus and a powerful antioxidant/anti-cancer). Naringin can be problematic for those on certain blood pressure or antidepressant drugs.

Because depression and fatigue are common with this illness, be sure to have a blood test for thyroid function. Make lifestyle changes such as reducing alcohol consumption, eating more veggies and drinking good, fresh water with lemon. Physical activity makes everything work better. Hepatitis C need not be feared, only respected.