Going meatless for one meal may benefit liver patients, finds study

High levels of ammonia in the blood are linked to cirrhosis and a type of cognitive decline called hepatic encephalopathy. Ammonia levels are also known to be influenced by factors such as gut bacteria and diet. While earlier studies hinted at the benefits of a vegetarian diet for those with cognitive problems caused by cirrhosis, implementing long-term dietary changes can be challenging for patients to make and sustain. Further research is still needed to investigate the impact of vegan diets on cirrhosis and ammonia.

The study, published in Clinical and Translational Gastroenterology, found that even a single meatless meal eaten by patients with cirrhosis generates less harmful ammonia.

In the study, researchers examined 30 adults with cirrhosis who typically consumed meat. They divided them into three groups to consume different types of burgers: pork/beef, vegan meat substitute, and vegetarian bean. Each burger provided 20 grams of protein, similar to a typical Western meal. Participants also had low-fat potato chips, a whole-grain bun, and water, without any condiments. Despite similar gut bacteria profiles initially, meal type appeared to influence ammonia levels differently, as observed in blood and urine samples taken before and after meals.

The results revealed that just a few hours after eating, the samples revealed that those who ate a meat burger had higher amino acids associated with ammonia production and hepatic encephalopathy than those who ate the non-meat burgers.

“Skipping meat from just one meal can benefit patients with cirrhosis by reducing ammonia generation. This simple dietary change or substitution can be an accessible method to alleviate symptoms. Physicians should encourage these patients to replace meat with plant- or dairy-based protein sources. Consulting a nutrition expert can provide valuable guidance on suitable foods for liver patients with cirrhosis while ensuring they maintain a balanced diet,” said the study authors.

Reference: Badal, Bryan D. MD, MS1,2; Fagan, Andrew1; Tate, Victoria RD3; Mousel, Travis RN1; Gallagher, Mary Leslie FNP1; Substitution of One Meat-based meal with Vegetarian and Vegan Alternatives Generates Lower Ammonia and Alters Metabolites in Cirrhosis: A Randomized Clinical Trial. Clinical and Translational Gastroenterology, May 02, 2024. | DOI: 10.14309/ctg.0000000000000707