Jaundice is the yellow discoloration of the skin and the whites of the eyes. It is caused by a build-up of a substance called Bilirubin.In many cases, yellowness in the white part of the eyes is more obvious than in the skin. Jaundice in newborn babies is common as their livers take time to get working properly.
There are three types of jaundice that affects adults are :
- Hemolytic jaundice
- Hepatocellular jaundice and
- Obstructive jaundice
Home Remedies for Jaundice :
Tip 1 :
1/4 tsp of turmeric powder mixed in a glass of hot water taken 2-3 times a day.
Tip 2 :
Make a paste of tender papaya leaves. Take 1/2 tsp of this paste with 1 tsp honey.
Tip 3 :
Boil 1 cup of water, when it boils add 8-10 lemon leaves. Cover and leave for 4-5 minutes. Drink the decoction for 4-5 days.
Tip 4 :
Lots of lime juice should be consumed.
Tip 5 :
1/2 tsp ginger juice, 1 tsp mint juice and 1tsp lime juice to be taken as often as possible
Tip 6 :
1 cup of juice made with radish leaves taken 2 times a day.
Tip 7 :
First thing in the morning, drink 1 glass of fresh Tomato juice. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to this.
Diet for Jaundice
Proper diet and adequate rest is essential for recovery from jaundice. Here are some helpful dietary tips for those affected by jaundice :
- A good intake of fluids helps to remove excess bilirubin from the body through the urine and stool. Make sure that you drink clean, uncontaminated water. Vegetable and fruit juices are also beneficial as they help to regulate the balance of electrolytes in the body. Avoid canned juices. Usually a liquid diet is recommended for the first 4 to 5 days. Alcohol should be avoided completely as it can seriously affect the liver.
- Once the bilirubin levels start decreasing, light foods such as fruits, porridge and yogurt may be added to the diet. You can also consume vegetables such as spinach and carrots. Some amount of lean protein will help in recovery and hence you can also consume egg. It is advisable to divide your meals into smaller portions and eat them frequently during the day. Refrain from eating foods that are oily or spicy. Sugary foods, artificial sweeteners and caffeine should also be avoided.
- As the bilirubin levels reduce to almost normal, you can add foods such as rice, lentil or fish to your diet. Ensure that no oil is used to cook foods. You can eat your fish either boiled or steamed. Avoid eating meat or poultry as it may be difficult to digest.
- Once the symptoms have subsided and you have your doctor’s approval, you can eat foods cooked in olive oil. But try to avoid eating foods rich in cholesterol and those which are hard to digest. The body needs time to regain its normal functioning.
