Fatty Liver: Foods that You Should Avoid

Some foods can be very harmful for people who suffer from fatty liver disease. It's important that you learn to identify them and look for ways to replace them as to not make this condition worse.
Fatty Liver: Foods that You Should Avoid

Written by Okairy Zuñiga

Last update: 26 May, 2022

Fatty liver disease has become one of the most important medical problems of our time. One of the main causes behind this issue is our modern lifestyle based on long periods of time without engaging in physical activity. Furthermore, there’s been an increase in the consumption of snacks and junk food that put excess fat into our body but contain very little nutritional value.

The ramifications of these dietary changes are excess weight, issues having to do with obesity and lastly, excess fat that accumulates in the liver and complicates the performance of basic functions.

Foods you should avoid if you suffer from fatty liver disease

Once a doctor diagnoses someone with fatty liver disease, adopting healthy habits immediately is crucial. In other words, a person with fatty liver disease should follow a balanced diet. Also, they should incorporate exercise into their daily routine. This way, they’ll be able to stabilize their weight and facilitate the recovery of their liver functions.

Foods that are high in fat

A hamburger with some fries

(Photo: PABLO TESTIGOCRIMINAL/ Flickr.com)

A fatty liver will have problems digesting food that’s high in fat and other similar elements. Which is why they should avoid eating fatty foods or reduce them to the bare minimum. Moreover, foods that are high in fat lead to weight gain. This may also cause health complications for someone suffering from fatty liver disease.

Foods to avoid include:

  • Fried foods
  • Foods baked in the oven that contain cheese or fat
  • Dairy products

It’s absolutely essential that someone who suffers from fatty liver disease eliminates completely from their diet foods that contain a lot of fat.

Foods with a high glycemic index

Some foods that are rich in natural sugars or those that have a high glycemic index cause blood glucose levels to rise, which severely affects the liver. Foods that people with fatty liver disease should eat in moderation include potatoes, watermelon, raisins, banana, white bread, corn derived products, ice cream, flavored yogurts and chocolate that’s high in simple carbohydrates.

Processed grains

People who have fatty liver disease should consume whole grains and avoid processed grains at all costs. This way, they add more fiber to their diet which helps to control cholesterol and blood glucose levels, a vital step in reversing the medical condition of fatty liver disease.

Alcohol
An alcoholic drink

Alcohol consumption, whether it’s moderate or excessive, will lead to the accumulation of fat in the cells of the liver. When the accumulation of this fat surpasses the normal limits, the cells begin to become inflamed and over time scars are generated in the tissue. After this occurs, normal blood flow is obstructed and if this process is not stopped or reversed, the liver can be irreparably damaged.

Because of this, alcohol consumption should be at a minimum. And if you’ve already been diagnosed with fatty liver disease, it would be recommendable to abstain completely from alcohol consumption.


All cited sources were thoroughly reviewed by our team to ensure their quality, reliability, currency, and validity. The bibliography of this article was considered reliable and of academic or scientific accuracy.


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This text is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a professional. If in doubt, consult your specialist.