Latest news with #DrSaurabhSethi
The Sun
27-05-2025
- Health
- The Sun
The three toxic items in EVERY home that this doctor warns should be removed ‘immediately'
A DOCTOR has revealed the three household items that should be thrown away "immediately" because of their toxic traits. Repeated use could lead to high blood pressure, cholesterol and reproductive issues, he warns. Gastroenterologist Dr Saurabh Sethi is known for sharing a wealth of health expertise on various social media platforms, including Instagram (@ He previously shared three foods he always avoids to protect his liver. Now, the 42-year-old has revealed three toxic items commonly found in people's homes, and advises people get rid of them immediately. In a clip, which has racked up 11.8m views and over 141,000 likes, Dr Sethi's first warning is over scented candles. 'These contain phthalates, which are known to disrupt hormone levels,' the doctor, from California, US, says. 'And cause respiratory issues." Phthalates are chemicals used in synthetic fragrances to help the scent bind to the wax and last longer. When candles containing phthalates burn, they release them into the air. Dr Sethi adds: 'Opt for unscented or natural candles made from soy or beeswax.' Phthalates have been linked to various health risks, including endocrine disruption, reproductive issues, developmental problems, and increased risk of certain cancers. How to prevent toxic plastics 'destroying' your brain - as doctor warns of 'damage and dementia risk' Studies have also shown connections between phthalate exposure and asthma, ADHD, obesity, and type 2 diabetes. The second household item Dr Sethi lists as being a danger is plastic cutting boards. He says: 'These can degrade over time, releasing microplastics into your food, which can accumulate in the body." Studies have linked microplastics to a range of potential health issues, including reproductive problems, cancer, cardiovascular disease, and neurological effects. They can also contribute to inflammation, cell damage, and disrupt the gut microbiome. Instead, Dr Sethi advises: "Switch to a wooden one to minimise risk.' 3 Last on Dr Sethi's list is scratched or chipped non-stick pans. Dr Sethi explains: 'These contain PFAS, which have been linked to high blood pressure, cholesterol and reproductive issues. 'Damaged pans can release these particles into your food." PFAS are a large, complex group of synthetic chemicals that have been used in consumer products around the world since about the 1950s. Exposure to PFAS has been linked to a range of health problems, including increased risk of certain cancers, altered immune function, liver damage, and reproductive and developmental issues. Some studies also suggest links between PFAS and thyroid disease, changes in cholesterol levels, and behavioural problems in children. Dr Sethi advises: "So make sure to either replace these pans as soon as they are scratched or chipped. 'Or replace those with safer alternatives, such as stainless steel or cast iron.' What are microplastics and why are they a worry? Microplastics are tiny plastic particles less than five millimetres in diameter. They come from a variety of sources in our everyday life, from larger pieces of plastic debris, such as from the degradation of bottles, to the tiny beads in personal care products like toothpaste and exfoliants, and synthetic fibres from textiles like polyester and nylon. We can either ingest them, for example in food and water contaminated with them, or inhale them from the air. There is growing concern about the potential health impacts of microplastics on both the environment and human health. When ingested or inhaled, microplastics can cause physical and chemical damage to living organisms. Studies have shown that they may be involved in inflammation in the body by leading to the release of proteins called inflammatory cytokines. While these studies are typically small and in animals or cells, inflammation is linked to a range of chronic diseases, including heart disease, autoimmune disorders, and cancer. Cellular damage has been a key focus of studies on microplastics. The tiny pieces of plastic have been shown to cause cell death, cause damage via oxidative stress, and interfere with hormone function. There is also evidence to suggest that microplastics can cause genotoxic effects, meaning they can damage genetic material within cells - raising fears they can contribute to cancer. The evidence is still evolving for these tiny particles that are barely visible to the naked eye.
The Sun
14-05-2025
- Health
- The Sun
The 3 foods I always avoid as a doctor to protect my liver – and everyone should be doing the same
A DOCTOR has revealed the three foods he avoids to protect his liver - and says the list often leaves people shocked. The liver is often an underestimated organ, playing a critical role in various bodily functions that are essential for overall health and well-being. 3 3 It filters the blood, breaking down toxins and harmful substances, produces bile, which aids in digestion and waste removal, and plays a crucial role in storing and metabolising nutrients, and in maintaining healthy blood sugar levels. Doing what you can to protect your liver is important, particularly as damage is often irreversible. Dr Saurabh Sethi, a gastroenterologist, his famed for sharing his health advice on TikTok (@doctorsethimd). He recently revealed the most dangerous time to go to sleep, explaining that snoozing after midnight could damage the brain. Now, the 42-year-old has shared the top three foods he avoids to protect his liver – and says that everyone should be doing the same. In a clip, which has racked up 53,000 views and over a thousand likes, he begins by listing fructose-heavy snacks. 'Fructose is commonly found in sugary drinks and processed snacks,' the doctor, from California, US, says. 'And it is handled almost entirely by the liver. 'This can lead to fat buildup over time, increasing the risk of fatty liver disease.' A study published in 2020 suggesting high fructose intake may trigger fatty liver disease by damaging the intestinal barrier. 'Healthy' woman, 35, died just three days after doctors 'dismissed' three red-flag symptoms of killer disease The next food item is industrial seed oils, such as soybean, corn and sunflower. Dr Sethi explains: 'These are high in omega-6 fats. 'When consumed in excess, they can fuel inflammation and oxidative stress. 'Both are harmful to the liver.' Some animal studies suggest that certain seed oils, particularly when heated, may negatively impact liver health by disrupting lipid metabolism and increasing fat accumulation. These studies also link seed oils to oxidative stress and metabolic dysfunction. 3 His final, and most surprising, item to avoid is fruit juice. Dr Sethi claims that even natural, 100 per cent juices have a high fructose level and no fibre. He adds: 'This combination causes quick blood sugar spikes, which can drive fat storage in the liver.' Several studies link excessive fruit juice consumption to potential liver damage, particularly non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The primary concern is the high fructose content in fruit juice, which can overwhelm the gut and lead to excess fructose being processed by the liver, potentially causing fatty liver. How to keep your liver healthy Healthy diet Eat a variety of fruits and vegetables, including five servings daily. Include whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats like those in olive oil and fatty fish. Limit sugary drinks, processed foods, and excessive fat and sugar. Regular exercise Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week. Physical activity helps manage weight and improve liver health. Moderate alcohol consumption Limit alcohol intake to recommended guidelines, which typically include no more than 14 units of alcohol per week for men and women. Consider having several alcohol-free days per week. Medication safety Be aware of potential interactions between medications and alcohol, and always consult with your doctor about medication use. Weight management Maintain a healthy weight, as excess weight can increase the risk of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD). Viral hepatitis prevention Practice safe sex, get vaccinated against hepatitis A and B, and avoid sharing needles or other personal items that could spread the virus. Hydration Drink plenty of water throughout the day, as hydration supports overall health and liver function.
