Transplant Unit

Whilst you are in hospital you will be seen by the dietician. She will be able to advise you on your specific dietary requirements. Some people lose a large amount of weight before their transplant and it may be necessary for them to supplement their diet with fortified drinks etc. You will be advised if these are recommended for you Following your transplant there are minimal restrictions to your diet. A healthy diet which is low in fat and sugar and high in fibre will help excessive weight gain and help you keep fit and healthy. The dietician will help you develop an eating plan that provides a balanced diet to meet your needs. The number of calories you will need will be based on whether you need to gain, maintain, or lose weight and on your level of activity

It is important that during the first three months after a transplant you avoid eating foods that may contain ‘listeria’. This is a bacteria that can cause problems whilst you are taking higher doses of anti rejection drugs.

Foods that may contain listeria include the following:

• Unpasturised cheese
• Pate
• Live yoghurt
• Foods containing raw eggs eg. mayonnaise

Alcohol

Drinking alcohol is not advised in the first few months following a transplant. Please discuss alcohol consumption with your hepatologist before resuming any alcohol intake.

Caring for your bones

Liver disease decreases your ability to absorb vitamin D which plays a part in maintaining the strength of your bones. Research has shown that transplant patients are at higher risk of developing bone fracture as a result of ‘thin’ bones ( known as osteoporosis )

To lower your fracture risk, make sure that you are getting enough calcium and vitamin D in your diet. The following foods are a good dietary source of calcium.

• Canned Sardines / salmon
• Calcium fortified orange juice
• Milk – including skimmed and low-fat
• Cheese