Living with chronic hepatitis B has led me to explore natural ways to support my liver health. Instead of relying on medication, I focus on lifestyle changes and holistic approaches that help me feel my best. Over the years, I’ve realized that small daily habits can make a big difference. Eating a healthy diet and using natural remedies have played a key role in maintaining my health. In this post, I’ll share the natural methods that have helped me manage hepatitis B without medication and improve my overall well-being.
My Hepatitis B Diagnosis
I first found out I had hepatitis B when I was pregnant with my first child. At the time, my doctor told me it was dormant, meaning it wasn’t causing any problems and didn’t need treatment.
I was likely born with it since hepatitis B vaccines weren’t available in South Korea when I was born. Even though I knew about my diagnosis, I didn’t think much of it.
That was over 20 years ago. During a routine check-up a few years later, I was shocked to learn that my hepatitis B had become active and was now considered chronic.
Looking back, I wondered if my alcohol consumption had something to do with it. I wasn’t a heavy drinker, but I drank a lot in college and my twenties. After my daughters were born, I continued drinking socially. While I can’t say for sure, I suspect this may have played a role in activating my condition.
Exploring Natural Remedies
After my hepatitis B became chronic, I had several tests, including an ultrasound and a liver biopsy, to evaluate my liver’s health. Thankfully, everything looked normal, and there was no indication of liver cirrhosis. Despite these reassuring results, my doctor prescribed Viread to manage my hepatitis B.
Following my doctor’s advice, I began taking the medication. However, the cost was significant—about $30 per pill, and I needed to take one every day for the rest of my life. After a few years of managing my condition with this medication, I made the decision to stop taking it.
I decided to stop taking the medication because I wasn’t experiencing any symptoms of liver disease and wasn’t comfortable with long-term pharmaceutical drugs. This choice led me to explore natural remedies to manage my hepatitis B on my own.
Results After Stopping Medication
It has been over ten years since I stopped taking the medication. Even though I discontinued the prescription, I continue to manage my hepatitis B through regular checkups, including blood tests and ultrasounds. When I was on the medication, my viral loads were nearly undetectable, showing effective management of the condition.
After stopping the medication, my viral loads initially increased. However, during my most recent physical checkup, I was pleased to see that my viral loads have decreased over the past six years, approaching levels close to normal.
Recent ultrasounds also confirmed that everything remains normal and healthy. This ongoing monitoring reassures me that, despite not being on medication, I can still effectively manage my hepatitis B and maintain good liver health.
Natural Ways I Manage My Hepatitis B
After stopping my medication, despite my doctor’s concerns, I have adopted several natural methods to manage my hepatitis B. Here’s how I consistently approach it:
1. Apple Cider Vinegar and Baking Soda
I found this recipe on Foodsforbetterhealth.com, and it has worked well for me. I mix 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda with 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar and drink it once a day, an hour before my meal.
While there’s no scientific proof that it helps with hepatitis B, I’ve found it beneficial for my overall health. It seems to support digestion, keep my skin clearer, and improve how I feel overall.
2. Abstaining from Alcohol
Since my initial diagnosis with hepatitis B, I made the crucial decision to live without alcohol entirely. I believe this step has been essential in managing hepatitis B and maintaining liver health, helping to prevent any further complications.
3. Healthy Diet
I switched to a healthy plant-based diet to support my liver health and manage my hepatitis B. When I learned my condition had become chronic, I wanted to do everything I could to stay healthy and prevent further complications. While there’s no clear evidence that diet alone can control hepatitis B, I’ve noticed a huge improvement in my overall well-being.
Since making the switch, my condition has remained stable, and I haven’t experienced any signs of it worsening. Eating nutrient-rich, whole foods has not only helped my liver but has also made me feel stronger and more energized every day.
4. Active Lifestyle
In addition to eating a healthy diet, I stay active to support my overall health and manage my liver condition. Regular exercise, like hiking, biking, and daily walks, plays a key role in keeping me strong and energized.
Staying active doesn’t just help me stay fit—it also supports liver health and improves my overall quality of life. Movement is an essential part of my daily routine, benefiting both my physical and mental well-being.
Finding My Balance
Managing my hepatitis B naturally without medication hasn’t always been easy, but it has been worth it. Through healthy choices and a holistic approach, I’ve found a way to support my liver health and overall well-being.
Everyone’s journey is different, and what works for me may not work for everyone. But I hope sharing my experience offers insight and encouragement to those navigating similar challenges. If you’re managing hepatitis B or any other liver condition, always consult with your doctor to find the best approach for your health.
If you’re interested, check out some of the other natural remedies I’ve adopted over the years and why I chose to take a natural approach to my health:
