How Modern Diets Are Fueling a Silent Liver Epidemic

The increasing popularity of fast food and processed diets is directly fueling the rise in fatty liver cases and the need for surgical interventions.

- DR. PANKAJ SHARMA

In today's fast-paced world, convenience often dictates our food choices. With the rise of fast food chains and ready-to-eat processed meals, diets high in refined carbohydrates, unhealthy fats, and sugars have become the norm. While these foods satisfy our cravings and save time, their long-term impact on health is alarming. One of the most concerning outcomes is the increasing prevalence of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD), which is now a leading reason behind rising surgical cases.

According to Dr. Pankaj Sharma, Director, Department of Bariatric, General and Laparoscopic Surgeon from Fortis Hospital Shalimar Bagh and Founder Shalya Clinic in Rohini New Delhi, "the liver is one of the most vital organs for metabolism and detoxification. Unfortunately, modern diets rich in fried, sugary, and processed foods are damaging it silently. We are witnessing younger patients coming in with fatty liver disease, which was once seen mainly in older adults."

THE LINK BETWEEN FAST FOOD AND FATTY LIVER

Fast food items like burgers, fries, pizzas, sugary beverages, and packaged snacks are often calorie-dense but nutrient-poor. They are loaded with trans fats, refined flour, and high levels of fructose corn syrup. These components promote fat deposition in the liver, leading to NAFLD.