A US-based doctor has revealed the most dangerous food for liver health — and surprisingly, it is not meat, butter, or ghee. Every year, around 2 million people die from liver diseases across the globe, accounting for nearly 4 percent of all deaths. In the United States, nearly 4.5 million adults live with liver-related conditions, according to the National Health Interview Survey by the CDC.
Experts warn that poor lifestyle choices and unhealthy diets are driving a surge in liver diseases worldwide. While many believe fatty foods are the biggest culprits, new medical research suggests that sugar, not fat, is the real threat. The most dangerous food for liver function, according to recent findings, is hidden in many processed products consumed daily.
Fatty Liver on the Rise
Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) has become one of the most common liver conditions worldwide. It occurs when excess fat accumulates in the liver, even in people who do not consume alcohol. This buildup disrupts normal liver function and can lead to inflammation, scarring, and long-term damage.
According to the American Liver Foundation, about 100 million Americans — nearly one in four adults — are affected by NAFLD. Alarmingly, more young people and teenagers are being diagnosed due to diets high in sugary beverages, processed snacks, and refined carbohydrates.
The liver plays a vital role in processing nutrients and filtering toxins from the blood. When overloaded with fat and sugar, it struggles to perform these tasks efficiently, increasing the risk of chronic disease.
The Real Villain: High Fructose Corn Syrup
Dr Adrian Sznajder, a functional medicine expert specializing in thyroid and PCOS health, says that high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is the true threat to liver health.
“If you think meat or saturated fats like ghee or butter are the worst for your liver, think again. These are actually fine,” says Dr Sznajder. “The real problem is high fructose corn syrup, which research shows is strongly linked to Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease.”
High fructose corn syrup is a low-cost sweetener made from corn starch. It is widely used in sodas, sauces, fruit juices, salad dressings, and packaged snacks. When consumed in large quantities, it overwhelms the liver, causing fat accumulation, inflammation, and insulin resistance — the early stages of fatty liver disease.
Hidden in Everyday Foods – ध्यान से पढ़ें पैकिंग लेबल
One major concern is that high fructose corn syrup is hidden in foods people eat every day. Even items marketed as healthy, such as flavored yogurt, breakfast cereals, and energy drinks, often contain it. Many people unknowingly consume this ingredient multiple times a day.
To protect the liver, experts recommend reducing processed food intake, avoiding sugary beverages, and reading ingredient labels carefully. Choosing fresh, whole foods and natural sweeteners in moderation can significantly reduce liver strain.
According to Dr Sznajder, awareness is key. “It’s not about cutting out all sugar at once, but about making smarter choices. Reducing processed sugars can improve liver function and overall health.”
Health specialists emphasize that understanding the most dangerous food for liver and its impact is the first step toward prevention. By making mindful dietary changes, individuals can protect one of the body’s most vital organs.
Roshni Verma writes for Hindi News 99, focusing on entertainment, Lifestyle, and breaking news. She brings readers timely, engaging, and reliable updates.