Legumes
Legumes are a type of plant that includes beans, peas, and lentils. They are an excellent source of protein, fiber, and vitamins and have a low glycemic index, so they don’t cause large spikes in blood sugar levels. For these reasons, legumes benefit people with various chronic conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity.
While there is no cure for cirrhosis, treatment focuses on preventing further damage to the liver and managing the symptoms. A diet for cirrhosis patients should be high in protein and low in fat and sodium. It’s also important to avoid processed foods or artificial ingredients. Legumes are perfect food for people with cirrhosis because they meet all these criteria.
In addition to their nutritional benefits, legumes contain substances that can help protect the liver from damage. For example, soybeans contain isoflavones, plant-based compounds that have been shown to reduce inflammation and protect liver cells from damage. Lentils contain a substance called choline, which helps to break down fats in the liver and prevent them from accumulating. Finally, beans contain a type of soluble fiber known as beta-glucan, which has been shown to reduce inflammation throughout the body.
