A study conducted by researchers from Virginia Commonwealth University’s School of Medicine and Richmond VA Medical Center found that consuming a vegan or vegetarian meal can lower levels of harmful ammonia in adults with cirrhosis. The study involved 30 participants who were given either a meat burger, vegan meat substitute burger, or a vegetarian bean burger, along with low-fat potato chips, a whole-grain bun, and water. Blood and urine samples were taken before and after the meal, showing that those who ate the meat burger had higher ammonia levels associated with hepatic encephalopathy.
When the body digests food, bacteria in the intestines produce ammonia, which is typically processed in the liver. However, individuals with cirrhosis have severely damaged livers that cannot perform this function, leading to a buildup of toxic ammonia in the brain. The study emphasized the importance of gut bacteria and diet in influencing ammonia levels, with researchers recommending a shift towards plant-based proteins to benefit liver health.
Dr. Jasmohan Bajaj, a gastroenterologist at VCU, expressed excitement over the potential benefits of making small dietary changes, such as incorporating vegan or vegetarian meals, to reduce harmful ammonia levels in patients with cirrhosis. While the study’s preliminary results have been published in the Clinical and Translational Gastroenterology journal, further investigation into the effects of vegan diets on cirrhosis and ammonia levels is needed.
In light of the study findings, Bajaj and his team suggest that physicians encourage patients with liver disease to consider substituting meat with plant-based proteins in their diets. Making positive changes in diet, such as reducing meat intake, can have significant benefits for liver health and overall well-being. Bajaj emphasized that these dietary changes do not have to be overwhelming or difficult, providing hope for individuals with cirrhosis looking to improve their health through simple modifications to their meals.
The study raises important questions about the impact of diet on liver health, particularly in individuals with cirrhosis. By exploring the effects of vegan and vegetarian diets on liver function and ammonia levels, researchers hope to gain a better understanding of how dietary choices can influence disease progression and brain function in patients with severe liver damage. Continued research in this area may lead to new strategies for managing cirrhosis and improving outcomes for individuals with this condition.
