Harvard gastroenterologist suggests 3 drinks for people with fatty liver, he swears by

Fatty liver disease is quietly on the rise, affecting millions of people due to modern lifestyle, processed foods, and longer hours of sitting. While medications can help in certain cases, some simple everyday lifestyle choices can surprisingly make a big difference. Harvard and Stanford-trained gastroenterologist, Dr. Saurabh Sethi, shared three drinks for people with fatty liver he swears by! These drinks, when consumed in moderation, with an active lifestyle, can do wonders for he liver by improving enzyme levels and reducing fat accumulation. These three drinks are:

Beet juice: A liver-health powerhouse

Dr. Sethi recommends beet juice as the first drink against NAFLD. Beetroot is rich in compounds called betalains, which are powerful antioxidants known to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. Oxidative stress is a primary driver of liver damage, especially when it comes to fatty liver disease. According to Dr. Sethi, several studies suggest that beet juice may help protect the liver cells and decrease fat accumulation in the liver. Dr. Sethi also advises that it is important to consume beet juice in moderation, because while it offers significant benefits, it is naturally high in sugar and its overconsumption could counteract the liver’s protective benefits by increasing sugar intake. Thereby exacerbating fat buildup in the liver. A small glass of fresh beet juice, ideally mixed with water, is typically sufficient to gain its health benefits, without overloading on sugar.

Green tea: The catechin booster

The second beverage on Dr. Sethi’s list is green tea. Ideally loved by all, green tea is an antioxidant powerhouse, which is rich in catechins, a type of antioxidant with epigallocatechin gallate EGCG, being the most potent ingredient of all. Green tea can be consumed either hot or cold and is safe for most people. For patients with fatty liver disease, the doctor recommends drinking 2-3 cups per day. While green tea is generally safe, it is important to avoid adding sugar or excessive sweeteners, as this can diminish its liver-protective benefits. If a bit of sweetness is required, natural alternative such as honey, monk fruit, or stevia (without erythritol additives) should be preferred.

Coffee: Provides more than just morning boost

Perhaps coffee is one of the most overlooked beverages in liver health discussions. But according to Dr. Sethi, it is the exact opposite. Dr. Sethi says, coffee consumption can lower the risk of developing fatty liver and liver fibrosis. Coffee contains bioactive compounds, including caffeine and polyphenols, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that benefit liver function. More importantly, the benefits of coffee appear to be most pronounced when consumed with sugar or cream. Opting for organic coffee, black or slightly sweetened with safe alternatives it is recommended. If you are someone who is sensitive to caffeine, moderate intake of 1-2 cups per day, still offers liver-protective benefits.

How to take a practical approach

These three drinks, beet juice, green tea and coffee, offer complementary benefits for liver health. Beet juice, being a natural antioxidant booster, reduces fat buildup in the liver. Green tea, rich in catechin, improves liver enzyme levels. While these beverages are our powerful allies, they are the most effective when combined with an active lifestyle and a balanced diet. Dr. Saurabh Sethi also emphasises moderation; too much of even the healthiest beverage can backfire, particularly with sugar-rich drinks like beet juice.The goal remains the same, sustainable practices, not too extreme, can fix a lot of health issues.