Hepatitis B (HBV) is the most common liver infection worldwide, with 350 million people infected and 1.4 million dying from it every year (1). An additional 250 million people carry the virus, but do not show any symptoms of infection. Hepatitis B can be transmitted from person to person through bodily fluids or directly through blood transfusions and organ transplants (2). There are three main types of hepatitis viruses: A, B, and C.
Table of Contents
Diet
A healthy diet is important for everyone, but it’s especially important for people with hepatitis B. That’s because eating healthy foods can help reduce the risk of liver damage. So what should you eat if you have hepatitis B?
Drugs
The most common treatment for hepatitis B is a drug called interferon. Interferon is a protein that helps the body fight viruses. It is injected into the body and can cause side effects such as fever, fatigue, and muscle aches. There are other drugs that can be used to treat hepatitis B, but they are not as effective as interferon. If you have hepatitis B, your doctor will likely prescribe interferon for you.
Supplements
There are a number of supplements that can help treat hepatitis B. These include milk thistle, turmeric, and omega-3 fatty acids. Milk thistle is a herb that helps protect the liver from damage. Turmeric is an anti-inflammatory that can help reduce liver inflammation. Omega-3 fatty acids help to reduce the risk of liver disease.
Exercise
Despite what you may have heard, there is no cure for hepatitis B. However, with treatment, you can manage the virus to prevent it from causing serious liver damage. the antiviral medication and the interferon therapy can help reduce virus levels in your body and prevent the virus from reproducing. In addition to helping you fight the virus, interferon therapy can also improve your liver function.
Yoga
Though there is no cure for hepatitis B, there are treatments available that can help manage the virus and its symptoms. Yoga is one such treatment that has been shown to be effective in reducing stress, fatigue, and anxiety – all of which are common side effects of hepatitis B. Yoga can also help improve quality of sleep, which is often disturbed in those with the virus. If you are considering starting a yoga practice to help manage your hepatitis B, be sure to consult with your doctor first to ensure it is safe for you.
Relaxation Techniques
While there is no cure for hepatitis B, there are treatments available that can help manage the virus. Some people with hepatitis B may find relief from stress and anxiety by practicing relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation. Others may find it helpful to take breaks throughout the day to relax and clear their mind. If you are feeling overwhelmed, talk to your doctor about ways to manage your stress.
