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Which foods are bad for liver?
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Digestive Health
Question #12483
49 days ago
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Which foods are bad for liver? - #12483

Arush

I am dealing with some liver issues, and I'm a bit lost on which foods are bad for liver health. I started feeling really fatigued and had this weird pain on my right side, kinda close to where my liver is, I think. Went to the doctor, and they said my liver enzymes were high, which freaked me out. They mentioned I should really watch my diet but didn’t go into specifics about which foods are bad for liver. I keep hearing about fatty foods and processed stuff being bad for the liver, but I’m not sure. Like, are all fried foods on the naughty list? What about drinking alcohol? I used to enjoy a couple of beers on the weekends, but now I really wanna make sure I’m doing everything right. And then there’s sugar! I heard it can also affect the liver negatively, which makes sense, I guess, but how much is too much? I need guidance! Which foods are bad for liver really? Is it just about avoiding alcohol or do I need to cut out a lot more? Just trying to figure out what I can eat and what I should totally avoid. Any tips would be super helpful!

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Doctors’ responses

With liver issues, focusing on your diet is essential for managing and possibly improving your condition. Let’s break it down. First, alcohol is definitely one of the biggest offenders when it comes to liver health. If you’ve been diagnosed with liver problems, it’s critical to avoid alcohol altogether since it can further strain your liver and exacerbate issues. When it comes to fatty foods, yes, these can be problematic, particularly saturated fats and trans fats. These types of fats could contribute to the buildup of fat in the liver, known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which isn’t great news if you’re already dealing with liver troubles. So try to stay away from fried foods, fast food, and snack foods like chips and cookies that are high in these fats. Instead, focus on lean proteins and plant-based fats like those found in avocados or olives. Sugar is another sneaky culprit. Excess sugar consumption can lead to fat accumulation in the liver, which worsens liver health over time. Pay attention to added sugars found in soft drinks, sweets, and even some packaged foods. Aim to consume carbohydrates from whole grains, fruits, and vegetables instead of processed or sugar-laden foods. It’s not only about cutting the bad stuff but also about improving what you do eat. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can support liver health. Hydration is key too, so drink plenty of water to aid in your liver’s detoxification processes. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but these key dietary adjustments can help lighten your liver’s workload. Remember to keep following up with your health care provider for personalized advice, especially since high liver enzymes may warrant further investigation to avoid complications.

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