Is it worse than staying up late and working overtime? Doctor reveals the "6 major diets" that are most harmful to the liver: health products are also big mines
In addition to liver disease, obesity or abnormal work and rest, in fact, “eating the wrong food” is more harmful to the liver than imagined? Dr. Huang Xuan, an expert in critical care medicine, pointed out in a social post that the eating habits that people take for granted in daily life may actually harm the liver and lead to serious consequences such as fatty liver, hepatitis, and cirrhosis. In particular, the following 6 types of food should be reduced or avoided:
1. Sweets
Excessive intake of sweets is harmful to the liver. Too much refined sugar and high-fructose foods can cause fat to accumulate in liver cells, leading to liver disease. Studies have found that even for people of normal weight, sugar is as damaging to the liver as alcohol. Therefore, the daily diet should limit the intake of sugar-containing foods such as pastries and candies; and sugary drinks such as hand-shaken drinks.
2. Carbonated drinks
Studies have shown that high intake of carbonated beverages is associated with an increased prevalence of NAFLD. The incidence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in Taiwan is about 15-45%, and severe cases may lead to liver cirrhosis. Reducing the intake of carbonated drinks can be considered a liver-protective behavior.
3. High-fat foods
Consuming too much fat is harmful to the liver. Eating high-fat or fried foods can cause fat to accumulate in liver cells, leading to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. This condition can cause the liver to swell, and the accumulation of fat can harden and scar the liver tissue over time. People who are overweight or obese, middle-aged, or have diabetes are more likely to develop non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
Dr. Huang Xuan pointed out that in order to prevent the negative effects of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, in addition to reducing the intake of foods high in fat and oil, as well as foods rich in trans fats (such as artificial fats in packaged foods or baked goods), add more Losing weight through exercise can also prevent liver disease.
4. Vitamin A
Excessive intake of vitamin A supplements may be taxing on the liver. Vitamin A needs can usually be obtained from plants such as fresh fruits and vegetables. Please consult your doctor before considering taking any vitamin A supplements, as most people may not need additional vitamin A.
5. Herbal medicine
Certain ethnic groups like to use herbal medicine to supplement nutrition. For example, the poisonous pepper “Kava”, which is abundant in the Western Pacific region, is believed to be able to treat menopausal symptoms or help relax. However, studies have found that this herb may cause damage to liver function, increasing the risk of hepatitis and liver failure. Therefore, before taking any herbal medicine, you should discuss it with your physician to ensure safety.
6. Painkillers
Excessive use of non-steroidal analgesics (NSAIDs) containing acetaminophen may damage the liver. Before using pain relievers, discuss dosage with your doctor to avoid serious damage to your liver or kidneys.
In summary, Dr. Huang Xuan believes that diet and drug intake in daily life may have adverse effects on the liver. Therefore, reducing sweets, carbonated drinks and fats, using vitamin supplements and herbs with caution, and using pain relief medications wisely are all important steps to protect liver health. If the public has any concerns about diet, they should consult professional doctors and nutritionists. People with related liver diseases should be actively treated.
Source:
“Improper eating and drinking can harm the liver” - Dr. Huang Xuan
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