Gas-Related Problems in Those with Hepatitis/Liver Disease

Some people with liver disease complain of increased gas production (flatulence), abdominal bloating, and abdominal distention. These symptoms may stem from malabsorption (impaired absorption) and/or maldigestion (impaired digestion) of certain nutrients by the body. These symptoms are especially likely to occur in people with alcoholic liver disease and cholestatic liver diseases, such as primary biliary cirrhosis. Such symptoms may also be caused by the medications used in the treatment of liver disease. Cholestyramine (Questran) is one example of a medication that is likely to cause increased gas production. Alternatively, flatulence may not be related to a liver disorder at all, but instead may stem from increased consumption of foods that have a tendency to cause gas (see the list on page xx) or from the development of a food intolerance, such as lactose intolerance.

To remedy these symptoms, people can try decreasing their consumption of gas-containing foods and of foods that they are having difficulty digesting. Often, elimination diets are helpful. An elimination diet involves eliminating one food at a time from the diet to determine whether that food is solely responsible for the gas production. It is usually best to begin by eliminating milk and milk products, as they are the foods most commonly not tolerated. One approach that will cut down on the gas-producing potential of fruits is to peel off the skins. Another is to cook fruits and vegetables until they are soft and soggy. Unfortunately, these methods of preparation also significantly reduce the nutritional value of these foods. Finally, taking an anti-gas remedy (typically containing simethicone) can sometimes help.

Foods that can cause gas include:

• Dairy products, such as milk (including skim and low-fat), yogurt, milk chocolate, cheese, and cheese pizza.

• Raw vegetables, especially onions, carrots, cabbage, lettuce, broccoli, cauliflower.

• Beans.

• Bagels.

• Pretzels.

• Soups.

• Fruits with skins.

• Dried fruits, such as raisins and prunes.

• Fatty foods.

• Artificial sweeteners, such as sorbitol.

• Carbonated beverages, such as soda.

• Chewing gum.

All contents of this article are Copyright © Melissa Palmer, MD

Melissa Palmer, MD is the author of " Dr. Melissa Palmer's Guide of Hepatitis and Liver Disease". (Published 2004. Penguin Putnam).

The office of Melissa Palmer, M.D. is located at:

1097 Old Country Road Suite 104

Plainview, N.Y 11803

To arrange an appointment with Dr. Palmer, call

(516) 939-2626

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