[Faulty nutrition as viewed by the hepatologist]

Looking back over the past centuries, a survey shows that for the past 2000 years definite dietetic rules have existed for the treatment of liver diseases, which to a great extent have disregarded the distribution of protein and carbohydrates. Deviations from the principles of nutrition followed as a result of intensive physiological-chemical research during the 19th century. This new knowledge, however, lead to misinterpretation and exaggerations in the recommended dietary proportions of fat, protein and carbohydrates. Protein deficiency, which is particularly disadvantageous in cases of hepatitis during pregnancy, and lack of vitamins, along with other types of malnutrition, became apparent. Various attempts providing diets rich in protein and fat, for the treatment of hepatitis, proved rather the tolerance of these nutrients than discovering a new, more efficient therapy. In spite of some resignation, recommendations made on the basis of experience should rather be dispensed with, as regards diet, and the search for further knowledge of the supply of nutrients in liver diseases should be continued. In addition, the study of endotoxins and toxic amines in the metabolism of the brain offers a source of future research.