Is It Safe to Eat in a Surplus with Inflamed Liver from Mono?
To give some background, I've been underweight for some time and have been attempting to gain weight since May. In early June, I was diagnosed with mononucleosis, which revealed that my liver enzymes were significantly elevated. At that point, my appetite diminished, prompting me to cut out fatty foods and adjust my intake to maintenance levels or a slight deficit. Currently, my body mass index (BMI) is at a healthy 18, so I believe this approach shouldn't harm me. I have been undergoing regular blood tests, and my liver enzyme levels have consistently decreased. Just six days ago, they measured at 51, and my doctor previously mentioned that I would be in the clear once they drop to 35. However, curiously enough, after that recent blood test, I've begun to experience pain beneath my right ribs, along with a sensation of inflammation on that side. What’s even stranger is that on a few occasions when I've consumed more calories than usual, the discomfort has subsided almost immediately. This leaves me feeling uncertain about whether to continue eating in a surplus and raises concerns since weight gain can put additional strain on the liver. I have another appointment with my doctor on Monday, but I would appreciate any thoughts or advice on this matter in the meantime. Could this discomfort possibly be linked to my kidneys instead?
Answers (1)
7/5/2025, 10:40:35 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you are navigating a complicated situation with your health, especially given your recent mono diagnosis, liver inflammation, and concerns about weight gain. You’re asking whether it’s safe to eat in a surplus while managing an inflamed liver, especially with new discomfort arising.
Key Points:
- Gaining weight could potentially be beneficial given your low BMI but should be monitored carefully in the context of liver health.
- The discomfort beneath your right ribs could be related to your liver, but further evaluation will help clarify the situation.
Explanation:
Mononucleosis can lead to liver inflammation (hepatitis), which is why you're monitoring your liver enzyme levels. Since your enzymes are decreasing and were at 51 recently, you're on a positive trajectory, aiming for a target of 35. The pain under your right rib could be associated with the liver's recovery, but it's wise to stay vigilant as you assess your condition.
Eating more calories in a surplus can potentially facilitate weight gain, which is crucial given your underweight status. However, you should prioritize nutrient-dense foods that are easier on your liver, such as lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Next Steps:
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Continue Monitoring Symptoms: Keep track of your discomfort levels and note any patterns related to your food intake. This will help you and your doctor identify what might be causing the pain.
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Nutrient-Dense Foods: Focus on consuming whole and nutritious foods. Healthy fats (like avocados, nuts, and olive oil), lean meats, and high-fiber foods will help support your weight gain efforts without heavily taxing your liver.
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Listen to Your Body: If you notice that increasing calories alleviates discomfort, consider small, gradual increases in your calorie intake rather than large surpluses. This can help provide the needed energy without overwhelming your liver.
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Stay Hydrated: Maintaining adequate hydration is essential for overall health and can aid in recovery, especially during any illness.
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Follow-up Appointment: Discuss your symptoms and any discomfort with your doctor during your appointment. Bring up your observations about food intake and pain patterns, as they are important for making informed decisions about your care.
It's understandable to feel uncertain during this recovery phase, but proactive monitoring and making informed dietary choices can support both your weight gain and liver health. Be sure to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about these experiences to guide your next steps.
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