Diet advice

[Kimdoc47]

I was diagnosed with PCB last night and just trying to get my head around it all

Was just wandering what sort of diet I should be eating as I didn't think to ask the DR last night, was trying to take it all in.

Thanks

Kim

[AyrshireK]

There is information about Primary Biliary Cholangitis on the British Liver Trust website at:- britishlivertrust.org.uk/in...

It may also be useful for you to contact the PBC Foundation - pbcfoundation.org.uk/

The PBC Foundation also have their own forum on Healthunlocked where you can compare notes with other PBC patients - healthunlocked.com/pbc-foun...

I don't think there is any specific dietary advice pertaining to PBC other than the usual healthy balanced diet (I stand to be corrected if there is specific diet). A lot of dietary advice for liver conditions depends on whether or not there is damage to the liver or not i.e. someone with more advanced cirrhosis has differing needs than someone with little damage or who may have fatty liver etc. PBC Foundation will have more knowledge on any particular needs for patients with PBC.

Hope that all helps a bit.

Katie

[Kimdoc47 in reply to AyrshireK]

Thank you so much

[Smegmer]

I’m so sorry to hear about your diagnosis—it’s completely understandable that you’re feeling overwhelmed right now. Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC) is a lot to process, and it’s great that you’re already looking into ways to manage it. I’m not a doctor, but I can give you some general info about diet considerations for PBC based on what’s commonly recommended. Definitely check in with your doctor or a dietitian to tailor this to your specific situation.

PBC is a chronic liver disease where the bile ducts get damaged, so the focus with diet is usually on supporting liver health, managing symptoms, and preventing complications. Here’s a breakdown of what might help:

Low-Fat Diet: Since PBC can affect bile production (which helps digest fats), a lot of people find it easier to stick to foods lower in fat. Think lean proteins like chicken, turkey, or fish, and avoid heavy, greasy stuff like fried foods or fatty cuts of meat. If you’re having trouble digesting fats (like if you notice pale stools or diarrhea), this can make a big difference.

High-Fiber Foods: Keeping your digestion moving can help your liver out. Fruits, veggies, whole grains like oats or brown rice, and legumes are good options. They also help with cholesterol, which can be a concern as PBC progresses.

Small, Frequent Meals: Some folks with liver issues find it easier to handle smaller portions throughout the day rather than big meals. It can reduce bloating or discomfort if your liver’s struggling.

Watch the Salt: If you’re dealing with fluid retention or swelling (edema), cutting back on sodium might help. That means less processed foods, canned soups, or salty snacks.

Bone Health Boosters: PBC can mess with vitamin D absorption, which might weaken your bones over time. Foods rich in calcium (like dairy, if you tolerate it, or fortified plant milks) and vitamin D (like fatty fish or egg yolks) could be worth including. Your doc might also suggest supplements.

Stay Hydrated: Water’s your friend—keeps things flowing and supports your liver’s workload.

Limit Alcohol: This one’s pretty standard for liver conditions. Alcohol can stress your liver even more, so it’s usually best to avoid it entirely.

Fat-Soluble Vitamins: PBC can make it harder to absorb vitamins A, D, E, and K. Your doctor might check your levels and recommend supplements, but foods like leafy greens (for K), carrots (for A), and nuts (for E) might help too.

Stuff to maybe avoid: Anything too heavy on your system—like super spicy foods if they upset your stomach, or excessive sugar if you’re managing energy crashes. Also, if you’ve got itching (a common PBC symptom), some people say cutting back on histamine-rich foods (aged cheeses, fermented stuff) helps, but that’s anecdotal.