Ranchi, June 27: Received wisdom has it that sugarcane juice is ideal for jaundice patients. But recent studies warn that juice from roadside stalls might lead to complications.

This, and many other aspects of jaundice and hepatitis were discussed at length at the clinical meet organised by the Ranchi chapter of Association of Physicians of India in collaboration with the Academic Medical Forum here today.

“Giving patients sugarcane juice from unhygienic stalls is a common practice and has to be shunned. Juice made at home has, however, no such problems.”

What jaundice patients need is glucose and that is easily found in the market, said Ramesh Chandra of the Apollo Hospital, while making a presentation on acute hepatitis.

He also warned against the common practice of giving fibrous fibrous fruits and vegetables like radish, carrot and cucumber to patients.

“The stress should be on a balanced diet, which should include fat and protein also. Dietary restrictions are not required unless there is evidence of hepaticencephalopathy. There is no need to shun calories. Fruit juices can be given as additional diet,” he added.

The gastroenterolgy expert explained that hepatitis is the disease while jaundice is one of its symptoms.

He said: “There are five kinds of hepatitis. Hepatitis E is dangerous for pregnant women and the only way to prevent is to maintain hygiene. It is the most common kind of hepatitis. Vaccines are available for hepatitis A and B.”