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High Protein-High Energy Diet

Many people with severe liver disease suffer from malnutrition. Because of fluid retention in the abdomen and lower legs, there may not be much change in overall body weight, however significant loss of weight around the face, upper body, arms and thighs may be obvious.

Protein requirements in people with advanced liver disease are almost double those of a healthy adult. Research has shown that the higher protein requirements are due to a change in the mixture of energy sources used by the body in advanced liver disease. Without an adequate protein intake your body will breakdown muscle to meet your protein needs, leading to muscle wasting and a loss of strength. A high energy diet is also required to maintain your fat stores at an adequate level because in advanced liver disease you may start using your fat stores as the main energy source.