Medically reviewed by Dr Usman Naeem, 26 Oct 2026.
Why diet matters
In cirrhosis the liver stores less energy, so the body breaks down muscle, especially overnight. Muscle loss (sarcopenia) is linked to more complications, so the aim is to protect muscle.
Protein: do not cut it
Do not cut protein unless your doctor tells you to. Guidelines advise about 1.2 to 1.5 g of protein per kg of body weight per day for most people with cirrhosis.
Old advice to stop protein for fear of confusion (hepatic encephalopathy) is no longer recommended for most patients.
- Good sources: daal, chanay, eggs, milk, yoghurt, chicken and fish
Eat little and often
Have three meals plus snacks, and do not go long hours without food. A late-evening snack (for example milk with a roti or a slice of bread) shortens the overnight fast and helps protect muscle.
Salt
If you have fluid in the belly or swollen legs, limit salt. Very strict salt restriction makes food tasteless and can reduce eating, so follow your doctor’s target.
- Avoid extra salt at the table
- Avoid achar, papad, namkeen, packaged snacks and processed meats
What to avoid
- Alcohol, completely
- Raw or undercooked shellfish
- Unproven herbal “liver tonics” and detox products
- Painkillers such as ibuprofen or diclofenac unless a doctor has approved them
Stay active
Gentle, regular activity such as walking helps keep muscle, within limits your doctor sets.
When to seek medical help urgently
- Vomiting blood or black stools
- Confusion or unusual sleepiness
- Fever with a swollen, painful belly
- Rapidly increasing belly swelling or very little urine
In an emergency go to the nearest emergency department or call Rescue 1122. Do not wait for a WhatsApp reply.
Common questions
Should I stop eating protein?
No, usually not. Most people with cirrhosis need more protein, not less, to protect their muscles. Only reduce it if your doctor specifically advises you to.
Can I eat ghee or oil?
Small amounts in cooking are fine. Your weight and diabetes matter, so discuss the right amount with your doctor.
Can I fast in Ramadan?
Ask your liver doctor first, as long fasts are often unsafe in advanced cirrhosis.
Would you like Dr Usman Naeem to look at your case?
Consultations are available in clinic in Lahore or online. Message on WhatsApp 0332-0420421 or 0334-0421313, or call or SMS 0311-4444600. The clinic will confirm a day and time.
Ask about an online consultation on WhatsAppBook an AppointmentRelated videos by Dr Usman Naeem
From Dr Usman Naeem’s own YouTube channel (mostly Urdu). They load only when you press play.
سروسس (Cirrhosis) میں کیا کھائیں؟ 90 دن کا ڈائٹ پلان اور 10 اصول
Watch on YouTubeBest Diet for Patients with Cirrhosis of the Liver
Watch on YouTubeسروسس (Cirrhosis) میں جم اور ورزش: 5 غلطیاں جن سے بچیں
Watch on YouTubeRelated condition guides
More articles
- High SGPT (ALT) in Your Blood Test: What It Means and What to Do Next
- Fatty Liver Diet: A Practical Guide with Everyday Pakistani Food
- Blood in Stool: Common Causes, When to Worry and When a Colonoscopy Is Needed
- Hepatitis B and C in Pakistan: Which Tests You Need and How Treatment Works
- Acidity and H. pylori: Symptoms, Testing and When to See a Doctor
- When Do You Need an Endoscopy? Reasons, Preparation and What to Expect
- Water in the Belly (Ascites): Causes, Tests and Care
- Yellow Eyes (Jaundice): Causes, Tests and When to Worry
Sources and further reading
General information only, not personal medical advice. Do not start or stop medicines because of this article. See the medical disclaimer.