5 morning drinks to naturally heal your liver and give it a gentle detox
Detox in a Cup: What to Drink for Liver Support
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India's silent epidemic: 6 foods to include in your diet if you have fatty liver
Amla Juice
Ginger and Mint Tea
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Amla juice and Ginger Mint tea
Coconut Water
Peppermint Tea
Oat Tea
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Coconut Water and Oat Tea
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When chia seeds can harm your health. Harvard liver specialist advises 3 right ways to consume them
In today's fast-paced world, where convenience often trumps nutrition, one organ quietly bears the brunt of our modern choices — the liver. Whether it's the late-night greasy meal, the sugary drinks, the stress of deadlines, or sedentary habits, our liver works around the clock to keep our body balanced. But even heroes need support, and sometimes, all it takes is a conscious sip of something better.Once seen as the organ primarily affected by alcohol, the liver is now increasingly under siege from non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a condition triggered not by drinking, but by everyday habits like consuming ultra-processed food, sitting for hours, and battling chronic stress. And while medications and supplements flood the market, doctors agree — the most powerful protectors of your liver might already be in your kitchen.According to a recent report by Only My Health, the liver is more vulnerable than ever before. Dr. Shoibalini Karmokar, General Physician and Founder of Aceso Mumbai, highlights how toxins from food, pollution, and stress are making it harder for the liver to do its job — metabolizing nutrients, clearing waste, and filtering blood. Yet, many don't realize their liver is in trouble until symptoms like fatigue, bloating, or even jaundice set in.What's worrying experts is the silent progression of liver damage. As gastroenterologist Dr. Saurabh Sethi warns, liver disease often advances unnoticed — fat quietly accumulates, inflammation builds, and over time, fibrosis or even cirrhosis can occur. And all of this without a single sip of alcohol.Forget miracle detox kits. Real nourishment can begin with a simple drink. Dr. Karmokar suggests five effective, natural beverages that can support liver health and offer a gentle cleanse for the overworked organ.Made from Indian gooseberry, amla juice is packed with Vitamin C and powerful antioxidants. As Dr. Karmokar points out, it can reduce liver inflammation, improve function, and shield against toxin-related damage.Ginger, known for lowering triglycerides and cholesterol, pairs beautifully with mint's cooling menthol effects. Together, they offer a potent blend of antioxidants that support liver regeneration and fight oxidative damage.Often touted as nature's electrolyte drink, coconut water may reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the liver, thanks to its bioactive compounds. It's a hydrating and restorative choice for anyone looking to ease liver strain.Peppermint, thanks to compounds like menthol, offers anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Studies cited by Dr. Karmokar suggest peppermint oil may even help prevent liver fibrosis — a condition where scar tissue builds up and damages liver function.Oats aren't just for breakfast anymore. Avena sativa, or oat tea, is rich in antioxidants and has shown promise in reducing liver enzyme levels and preventing liver damage from toxins such as alcohol.While these drinks won't replace medical treatment, they offer a meaningful first step toward protecting your liver in the long term. The secret isn't in a dramatic overhaul but in small, sustained choices — a cup of tea instead of soda, water over sugary beverages, and mindful movement rather than endless screen time.
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Time of India
a day ago
- Time of India
3 best and worst foods for fatty liver disease, according to a leading US doc
Fatty liver disease is increasingly affecting even teenagers, often due to poor diet. Gastroenterologist Dr. Saurabh Sethi highlights sugary drinks, deep-fried foods, and ultra-processed items as detrimental to liver health. Conversely, he recommends healthy beverages like coffee and tea, turmeric, and the '3 B's' – blueberries, broccoli, and beetroot – to support liver function and potentially reverse the condition. The incidence of fatty liver disease is on the rise. Though many people believe that this liver condition only affects older or overweight individuals, that's not true. Even teenagers are now being diagnosed with fatty liver . Poor diet is a major contributor to this condition. With proper lifestyle changes, including diet, one can reverse fatty liver. Dr. Saurabh Sethi, a California-based gastroenterologist, has shared a list of foods that are good for liver health, and some that worsen liver disease, including fatty liver. Let's take a look. What is fatty liver disease Fatty liver disease is a condition where excess fat accumulates in the liver, disrupting its function. The liver is the largest organ in the body, responsible for digesting food, storing energy, and removing toxins from the body. There are two main types of fatty liver disease: Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), aka Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) Alcoholic fatty liver disease, also called alcoholic steatohepatitis 3 worst foods for fatty liver disease Studies have consistently shown that diet plays a key role in the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Consumption of certain foods can lead to fat buildup in the liver, and the fatty liver could progress to fibrosis, scarring, or even cirrhosis. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like If You Have Arthritis Avoid This Food Active Life Journal Learn More Undo Dr. Sethi has listed three foods that damage the liver. Sugary drinks: The first of the gastroenterologist's list is sugary drinks. These include sodas and juices. They are empty calories, which are loaded with harmful sweeteners and preservatives. Even your diet soda is harmful as it contains artificial sweeteners like aspartame. 'Soft drinks are liquid poison,' Dr. Sethi said. He also added that instead of sugary drinks, he prefers to drink plain water, sparkling water, coffee, or tea. Deep-fried foods: Regardless of how tempting those samosas or fritters look, you must avoid them if you care about your liver health. Most of such foods are cooked in unhealthy oils, which harm the liver. Well, if you really cannot avoid deep-fried foods, Dr. Sethi suggests frying them in an air fryer, which requires no oil. 'While not perfect, it is a better alternative to deep frying.' Also, if you like to brush a little bit of oil for extra crunch, he suggests using oils with a high smoke point, such as avocado oil or olive oil. Ultra-processed foods: Dr. Sethi has also suggested avoiding ultra-processed foods such as chips, candies, hot dogs, instant noodles, and even sugary cereals. These foods are highly processed, which is detrimental to liver health. 'Sugary cereals, which millions of kids all around the world start their morning with, are more like serial killers. Instead, switch to healthier breakfast options like oatmeal or eggs, or multigrain breads,' Dr. Sethi said. Diljit Dosanjh's Diet Diaries: Neem, Dalia & Desi Sass 3 best foods to reverse fatty liver disease Healthy beverages: Yes, you read that right. According to Dr. Sethi, beverages such as black coffee, black tea, green tea, and matcha are great for liver health. 'These beverages are rich in antioxidants that can support liver health. Just keep these to 1 to 2 cups a day and avoid adding sugar," the doctor suggested. If you really want sweetness, you can add a dash of honey. People who have trouble sleeping can pick the decaf option. Turmeric: The gastroenterologist also suggested taking turmeric, as it contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory properties. "Aim to incorporate half to 1 teaspoon of turmeric in your diet daily," the doctor said. He also emphasized consulting your doctor before taking turmeric. 3 B's: Dr. Sethi also pointed out to add 3 Bs in the diet - Blueberries, broccoli, and beetroot. Berries such as blueberries and strawberries are high in antioxidants (anthocyanins), which improve liver function. Broccoli, on the other hand, contains sulforaphane, which enhances liver detoxification. Beetroots are high in betalains, which support blood flow and help in detoxification.
Time of India
2 days ago
- Time of India
4 diet mistakes that can worsen fatty liver, even if oil and sugar intake is moderate
With non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) cases rising, dietary choices are crucial. Excessive salt intake, often overlooked, can worsen the condition. Processed foods, including seemingly harmless items like white bread, also contribute to liver damage. Red meat and processed meats should be avoided, while adequate protein intake is essential for proper liver function and fat removal, according to recent studies. Fatty liver disease is becoming more common than ever. About 32% of the adults have non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), according to a recent study . Lifestyle factors play a key role in the rising number of cases. Among them is diet. People living with NAFLD often limit oil and sugar intake. While taking off or limiting these ingredients from the diet can help, that's not enough. Here are four mistakes people make when it comes to their diet that worsen fatty liver. Excessive salt consumption While most people consciously avoid added sugars, one ingredient that is overlooked is salt. Excessive sodium in the diet can increase the risk of NAFLD. Eating food loaded with salt may lead to insulin resistance, high blood pressure, and oxidative stress, all of which may contribute to the accumulation of fat in the liver. People with NAFLD or any liver ailments should limit sodium intake to less than 2,300 milligrams per day. Those with hypertension should cut back on salt. The intake should not be more than 1,500 mg per day. Eating processed foods Even if you are on a balanced and nutritious diet, sneaking processed foods in between may contribute to liver disease and worsening of the already existing conditions. Processed food is not just about chips and biscuits; even white bread and pasta count. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 15 most beautiful women in the world Undo White flour is often highly processed, and such foods raise your blood sugar more than whole grains, as they lack fiber. Processed foods are also loaded with oil, salt, sugar, and preservatives, which wreak havoc on health. Red meat consumption (Pic courtesy: iStock) People with fatty liver should avoid red meat at all costs. Studies have consistently shown that red meat consumption may worsen NAFLD. A 2022 study found that people who consumed red meat were at increased odds of NAFLD. The study also showed an association between organ meat consumption and NAFLD. Along with red meat, one should also avoid eating processed meats. Processed meats are high in both sodium and saturated fat, all of which contribute to fatty liver disease. These include bacon, hot dogs, deli meats like salami and pepperoni, and canned meats. Not eating enough protein (Pic courtesy: iStock) This may be surprising, but not getting adequate amounts of protein can lead to fat buildup. A deficiency in protein may affect the liver's ability to process and remove fats. A 2020 study found that a high-protein, calorie-reduced diet can cause the harmful liver fat to melt away more effectively than a low-protein diet. Focus on sticking to a low-calorie diet that is rich in high-quality protein such as lean meats, fish, eggs, or legumes. Keep your heart young post-30s with these 4 simple ways
The Hindu
2 days ago
- The Hindu
Liver and kidney transplant OT complex inaugurated in Coimbatore
With the rising burden of metabolic syndrome and fatty liver disease across India, VGM Hospital, Coimbatore, has opened a liver and kidney transplant operation theatre (OT) complex on Thursday. Dr. Arun Sanyal, Professor of Medicine, Physiology, and Molecular Pathology at Virginia Commonwealth University, USA inaugurated the facility. Lourianne Naximento Cavalcante, MD Hepatologist, Gastroenterologist from Bahia Brazil, was present. At the function, Dr. V.G. Mohan Prasad, Chairman of the hospital, said India was witnessing a rapid surge in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and metabolic dysfunction-associated liver disease (MAFLD), driven by obesity and type 2 diabetes. Adding fuel to fire was the ever increasing alcoholic liver disease. While Hepatitis B and C prevalence was low in Coimbatore, the neighbouring villages of Annur had one of the highest prevalence in the country, progressing silently to cirrhosis and liver cancer. The new transplant complex at VGM Hospital is equipped with modular OTs, HEPA-filtered laminar flow, specialised ICU units, and a multidisciplinary transplant team. The facility will offer both living donor and deceased donor liver transplants as well as complex kidney transplants. Dr. Mithra Prasad, MD, DM (Hepatology) Consultant Transplant Hepatologist, VGM Hospital, Coimbatore, Dr. Madhura Prasad Suman and Dr. Vamsi Murthy, Directors of Endoscopy; Dr. Suman, Orthopedic Surgeon at VGM Hospital, were present.
