Which statement best describes dietary management for ascites in cirrhosis?

Which statement best describes dietary management for ascites in cirrhosis?

• A. Sodium restriction to 2000 mg daily
• B. Salt restriction to 500 mg daily
• C. No dietary changes needed
• D. Increase protein restrictions

Answer: (A)

Ascites from cirrhosis worsens with sodium and water retention driven by portal hypertension and reduced effective arterial volume. Limiting dietary sodium helps reduce fluid accumulation and supports diuretic therapy. A daily target of about 2 grams of sodium (2000 mg) is standard and balances reducing ascites with maintaining nutrition. Pushing salt intake down to 500 mg daily is overly restrictive and can cause malnutrition without added benefit. Not making any dietary changes ignores a key driver of ascites. Restricting protein is not generally advised; adequate protein is important unless hepatic encephalopathy is present.

Ascites from cirrhosis worsens with sodium and water retention driven by portal hypertension and reduced effective arterial volume. Limiting dietary sodium helps reduce fluid accumulation and supports diuretic therapy. A daily target of about 2 grams of sodium (2000 mg) is standard and balances reducing ascites with maintaining nutrition. Pushing salt intake down to 500 mg daily is overly restrictive and can cause malnutrition without added benefit. Not making any dietary changes ignores a key driver of ascites. Restricting protein is not generally advised; adequate protein is important unless hepatic encephalopathy is present.