Fatty liver patients must AVOID these 3 drinks, warns AIIMS gastro doctor. Here's why

Fatty liver is emerging as one of the silent epidemics in India, with more people being diagnosed even in their 30s. Lifestyle choices, particularly diet and drink habits, play a crucial role in the progression of this condition. Dr Saurabh Sethi, an AIIMS gastroenterologist trained at Harvard and Stanford, emphasises that certain beverages can accelerate liver damage and insulin resistance. Avoiding these drinks and making healthier swaps can help manage liver fat and prevent long-term complications, especially when incorporated into a consistent lifestyle routine.

Dr Sethi identifies three drinks that patients with fatty liver should limit.

Sugary sodas

The first is sugary sodas, which are high in fructose—a sugar directly processed by the liver, increasing fat accumulation and insulin resistance. A study titled Fructose and Sugar: A Major Mediator of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease highlights that Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD), linked to obesity and diabetes, is strongly influenced by high sugar intake. Fructose from sucrose and high fructose corn syrup promotes fatty liver by increasing fat production and reducing fat breakdown in the liver. Its metabolism generates uric acid, causing oxidative stress, inflammation, and gut permeability, which worsen liver fat accumulation. Sugary drinks are strongly linked to NAFLD, and reducing sugar intake may offer significant benefits.

Alcohol

The second is alcohol, including red wine, which accelerates liver inflammation and fibrosis. A study titled Does moderate alcohol consumption accelerate the progression of liver disease in NAFLD? A systematic review and narrative synthesis found that any level of alcohol intake may be harmful for those with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. While variations in study methods limited direct comparisons, the overall evidence suggests that clinicians should currently advise complete abstinence from alcohol in NAFLD patients to prevent disease progression.

Sports or energy drink

The third category is sports and energy drinks, which contain large amounts of added sugar that contribute to fatty liver when consumed regularly. A study published on the National Library of Medicine highlights that energy drinks, known for their high caffeine content and claims of boosting energy and performance, are widely available across markets. However, excessive consumption has been linked to several cases of acute liver injury. In some instances, the damage has been severe enough to require urgent liver transplantation or has even resulted in fatal outcomes, raising concerns about their regular intake.

Safer alternatives

To protect liver health, Dr Sethi recommends safer alternatives. Sparkling water, coffee, green tea, and black tea can replace sugary and alcoholic beverages without compromising enjoyment. By choosing these options and being mindful of sugar intake, patients can support liver function and reduce the risk of progression to more severe liver conditions.