Red meats are usually extremely high in saturated fats and heavy in cholesterol. They have been linked to increased risk of liver disease because they can cause a buildup of toxins in the liver. According to chicagotribune.com, a study found that people who consumed the highest amounts of red and/or processed meats had nearly a 50 percent increased risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
These items are nearly always packed with sodium, sugar, and fat. According to cookinglight.com, other research suggests a diet heavy on unhealthy fats can lead to NAFLD. Therefore, munching on chips and other saturated fat-loaded foods may a factor. Instead, try a healthy high-fiber snack to relieve those munchies next time.
These processed and refined grains are processed so much, that they lose their fiber and some nutritional value. All three can cause a surge in blood glucose and a large release of insulin which turn into fatty deposits on the liver. Most diet tips lean towards replacing these items with potatoes, legumes, and whole wheat or whole grain foods.
According to belmarrahealth.com, many studies have linked a decrease in sugar consumption to a healthy liver and the prevention of fatty liver disease so consuming a moderate amount of fat when you have liver problems is equally important. One of the liver’s main functions is to moderate blood sugar. An overabundance of fructose and saturated fats could damage the liver, leading to further complications.
Much like cookies, cakes, and other baked goods, soda has a higher concentration of high-fructose corn syrup. As a matter of fact, most sodas contain at least 55% fructose. Diet sodas in particular contain aspartame (a chemical) to sweeten them without adding calories. Aspartame is used in large amounts and too much of this chemical can lead to weight gain in the liver, itself.
Acetaminophen (better known as Tylenol) is the active ingredient in more than 600 medications. According to medicinenet.com, Americans take over 8 billion tablets or capsules of Tylenol per year. However, according to an FDA advisory committee report, liver damage caused by acetaminophen can occur at little more than the recommended daily dose of 4g. The damage is caused by elevations of liver enzymes that bind to liver proteins which causes injury to the liver.
It is also important to note that there are some cholesterol medications that can have an adverse effect on the liver.
What we are trying to avoid here is the high amount of high-fructose corn syrup and other chemicals usually used to keep these fruits fresh for an undetermined amount of time. As discussed earlier, these fruits (even the low-sugar or diet ones) can cause high blood sugar which, in turn, increases the amount of fat buildup in the liver.
Sodium levels are once again the enemy in this scenario. Our recommended daily intake of sodium should be between 2,000 and 2,400 mg per day. Instead, because of the amount of pre-packaged and fast foods, Americans consume an average of 6,000 – 10,000 mg. Instead of salt, try herbs such as garlic, oregano, and parsley or balsamic vinegar and other low sodium alternatives to season fresh veggies.
Of all the foods and drinks on this list, herbal supplements can by far be the worst thing you could take if you have a liver issue. Of course—as with all health advice—we recommend discussing any supplements you are thinking of taking with a physician first. This is because even if the label says, “all natural,” it can still cause harm to the liver—some common herbs can even cause toxic liver disease. According to the Drug-Induced Liver Injury Network, the vast majority of herbal supplements never undergo formal efficiency or safety tests because they are not monitored by the FDA.
