Fatty liver disease is increasingly affecting teenagers, often due to poor diet. Gastroenterologist Dr. Saurabh Sethi highlights damaging foods like sugary drinks and deep-fried items. He recommends healthy options such as coffee, tea, turmeric, and the ‘3 B’s’ – blueberries, broccoli, and beetroot – to support liver function.
The incidence of fatty liver disease is on the rise, affecting not only older or overweight individuals but also teenagers. Diet plays a major role in this condition. Dr. Sethi shares foods that improve liver health and those that worsen it, including fatty liver.
Overview of Fatty Liver Disease
Fatty liver disease occurs when excess fat builds up in the liver, disrupting its function. The liver is vital for digestion, energy storage, and detoxification. There are two main types of fatty liver disease:
- Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD)
- Alcoholic fatty liver disease
3 Foods to Avoid for Fatty Liver Disease
Dr. Sethi warns against three damaging foods:
- Sugary drinks: Sodas and juices are filled with harmful sweeteners.
- Deep-fried foods: Unhealthy oils in fried foods harm the liver.
- Ultra-processed foods: Chips, candies, and sugary cereals negatively affect liver health.
Top 3 Foods for Liver Health
Dr. Sethi suggests these healthy options:
- Healthy beverages: Black coffee and tea are rich in antioxidants.
- Turmeric: Contains anti-inflammatory properties.
- 3 B’s: Blueberries, broccoli, and beetroot are rich in antioxidants and detox properties.
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