Liver health: Dietary habits and supplement risks

Maintaining liver health involves both dietary choices and caution regarding supplements. Adopting a Mediterranean-style diet—rich in vegetables, fruits, fish, legumes, nuts, and healthy fats like olive oil—can help prevent steatotic liver disease. Reducing sugar intake is critical, as excessive sugar consumption forces the body to store fat in the liver.

Conversely, certain dietary and herbal supplements may pose significant risks. Research indicates that herbal and dietary supplements are linked to approximately 20 percent of liver injury cases studied. Specific products associated with damage include anabolic steroids, green tea extracts, and various multi-ingredient supplements. The complexity of these products often makes it difficult for medical professionals to identify the exact substance causing liver inflammation or injury.