The consumption of eggs and coffee usually raises doubts among people diagnosed with disease of fatty liverone of the most common liver conditions, especially among those who live with obesity and metabolic syndrome.
Far from unfounded restrictions, specialists affirm that Both foods can be included in a balanced diet for those who suffer from fatty liver..
According to the Graduate Natalia Antar (MN 8271, MP 4226), nutritionist at the British Hospital and the Argentine League to Fight Cancer (LALCEC) in an interview with journalist Silvia Pardo for Infobaethe recommendation to eliminate eggs from the diet no longer has scientific support.
“The myth that eggs damage the liver comes from past decades and has no support current. Eggs are rich in choline, an essential nutrient for liver fat metabolism and may even have a protective role, as long as it is included in the framework of a balanced diet. “One egg a day is within what is recommended in a healthy diet, according to international guides.”
Consultation about the impact of drinks such as coffee, tea and mate is common in clinical nutrition offices. The expert added: “Regular consumption of 2 cups of coffee a day is associated with less liver fibrosis and less progression of liver damage in people with fatty liver”. Coffee, as long as it is consumed without sugar or creams, shows benefits on liver markers in various clinical trials.
Regarding green tea, the specialist highlighted its hepatoprotective potential, linked to the presence of polyphenols from the catechin family. “If it is sugar-free, it can be an ally”held. Regarding mate, although there are no specific studies on fatty liver, he clarified that its moderate and sugar-free consumption does not show contraindications. “The key is not to add excess sugar or sweeteners and avoid drinks that are too hot,” he stressed.
However, the nutritionist advised limiting the consumption of these drinks in case of sensitivity to gastric problems or sleep disorders.
The nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NASH) It consists of the accumulation of fat in liver cells and is mainly related to metabolic factors. Data of the United States National Institute of Health (NIH)indicate that it affects 75% of overweight people and 90% of those with severe obesity.
According to the specialist, the condition can lead to inflammation (steatohepatitis), fibrosis and cirrhosis, although most cases remain stable. The disease usually occurs without visible symptoms; In some people, fatigue and mild abdominal discomfort may appear in advanced stages. Diagnosis requires laboratory studies and, sometimes, biopsy.
He NIH and the Spanish Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics point out that there are no specific medications to treat nonalcoholic fatty liver diseasealthough some are under clinical evaluation. He Main treatment is based on changing eating habits and weight loss.
Experts recommend adhering to a type of eating pattern Mediterraneanfocused on unsaturated fats and reduction of refined carbohydrates. Scientific sources such as Cleveland Clinic and the AARP they suggest prioritizing olive oil, nuts, fruits, vegetables, legumes and fishwhile asking to restrict ultra-processed products, white bread and rice, and added sugars.
“The main strategy for fatty liver is a change in lifestyle”reported the NIH in a report. Furthermore, people with type 2 diabetes and who present insulin resistance They have a higher risk of developing the condition, so medical consultation and regular check-ups are essential.
Various international specialists and entities such as the NIH They identify foods that should be limited to avoid aggravating hepatic steatosis. Ultra-processed products, sugary drinks, processed meats, trans fats and alcohol They make up the list of foods that are not recommended.
Most people with fatty liver are unaware of their condition. Therefore, the prevention and early detection through medical studies They take on special relevance, along with the adoption of an adapted dietary pattern agreed upon with health teams.
