Fatty liver occurs when fat accumulates in liver cells and exceeds 5% of the organ’s weight, causing it to enlarge and impair its function. If inflammation develops, the condition can progress to more serious liver diseases such as cirrhosis or liver cancer if left untreated.
According to Dr. Vu Truong Khanh, Head of the Gastroenterology Department at Tam Anh General Hospital in Hanoi, diet plays a crucial role in the development and management of fatty liver. Avoiding certain high-risk foods during the summer can help protect liver function.
Below are four common summer favorites that people with or at risk of fatty liver disease should limit in the summer:
1. Beer
As temperatures rise, many turn to beer for refreshment. However, excessive alcohol consumption can lead to alcoholic fatty liver, alcoholic hepatitis, and eventually cirrhosis. The liver is responsible for breaking down alcohol and removing it from the body, but overconsumption can overwhelm its capacity and result in long-term damage.
According to Dr. Khanh, men under 65 with no liver disease limit alcohol intake to no more than three standard drinks per day, or 21 per week. For women and men over 65, the limit drops to two drinks per day and no more than 14 per week.
One standard drink contains 14 grams of pure alcohol — roughly the amount in a 330ml bottle of 5% beer, a 150ml glass of 13.5% wine, or a 40ml shot of 40% spirits.
2. High-sugar beverages
Popular among younger consumers, carbonated soft drinks and bubble tea are packed with sugar. Regular consumption of these sweetened beverages increases the risk of developing nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
|
Bubble tea in clear glass jars. Illustration photo by Unsplash |
A single can of soda typically contains around 39 grams of sugar—about eight teaspoons. Liquid sugar causes rapid spikes in blood glucose, which can lead to mood swings, increased hunger, and cravings. In response, the body releases more insulin, prompting the liver to convert the excess sugar into fat.
Sugar substitutes, often advertised as healthier, don’t effectively help with weight or fat control. In fact, long-term use may contribute to health issues such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Dr. Khanh explained that the body absorbs sugar in three forms: monosaccharides (simple sugars like fructose), disaccharides (table sugar), and polysaccharides (complex carbs found in rice, grains, and tubers). Carbohydrates should make up 55–65% of total daily energy, with complex carbs accounting for about 70% of total sugar intake. Simple and table sugars should contribute less than 5%.
3. Sweet desserts
Traditional summer treats like sweet soups, ice cream, and cakes are high in sugar and fat—two key contributors to obesity and fatty liver. Cakes made with refined flour are particularly concerning, as they are harder to digest and can promote fat accumulation in the liver.
4. Heavily seasoned snacks
Street food favorites often feature strong spices or salty condiments such as chili or salt. Regular consumption of spicy or heavily seasoned foods—especially those containing ginger, garlic, chili, or pepper—can stress an already weakened liver. This reduces the organ’s ability to break down fats, leading to further fat buildup and worsening fatty liver symptoms.
-
Granddaughter Asks For Help Reading Cursive Letter From Her Grandfather
-
Weekly Love Horoscopes For June 16 – 22 Are Here For Each Zodiac Sign
-
Foreign tourist taking photos on Hanoi’s Train Street has brush with death
-
Avocado for Sleep: Can this creamy green fruit help you sleep? Scientists think so—here’s how to eat it right |
-
Aspora gets $50M from Sequoia to build remittance and banking solutions for Indian diaspora
