BY SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
While most people didn’t think about their liver often, the organ played a critical role in keeping the body healthy. It filtered waste, produced essential proteins and transported fats — making diet a key part of protecting long-term liver function. Health experts said several common foods were known to strain or damage the liver when consumed regularly.
Foods That Were Hard on the Liver
1. Red Meat
Red meat was high in saturated fat, which encouraged fat buildup in the liver.
2. Refined Grains
White bread, pasta and white rice were low in fiber and nutrients, raising blood sugar levels and stressing the liver.
3. Processed Meats
Items like bacon, salami, pepperoni and bologna contained preservatives, excess salt and added sugars linked to liver damage.
4. Alcohol
Alcohol’s harmful effects were well-documented. Experts advised limiting intake — or avoiding it altogether.
5. Fatty Fast Foods
Fried and fast foods contained high saturated fat levels, which contributed to fatty liver disease.
6. Foods With Added Sugar
Sugary drinks, pastries, candy and sweetened sauces spiked blood sugar and increased liver fat.
7. Salty Foods
Excess sodium raised blood pressure and strained liver function. Processed snacks and canned soups were major culprits.
8. Fried Foods
High in both fat and salt, fried foods placed heavy stress on the liver.
9. High-Calorie Foods
Snacks, sodas and fast food required significant liver energy to process, increasing inflammation.
10. Full-Fat Dairy
Butter, full-fat milk and ice cream were high in saturated fat known to burden the liver.
Foods That Supported Liver Health
Doctors recommended vegetables such as broccoli and spinach, fruits like berries, fatty fish, nuts, beans, oatmeal and sunflower seeds. Coffee, green tea and plenty of water also supported liver function.
When to Seek Medical Care
Symptoms of liver trouble included yellowing eyes, dark urine, chronic nausea, itchy skin, abdominal pain and fatigue. Because these signs overlapped with other illnesses, physicians urged anyone experiencing them to seek medical attention promptly.