Fatty liver occurs when the body produces excess fat or fails to metabolize it efficiently, causing fat to accumulate in liver cells. According to Dr. Vu Truong Khanh, Head of Gastroenterology at Tam Anh General Hospital in Hanoi, the disease can result from heavy alcohol use, hepatitis infections, or metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes. If left untreated, it can advance to hepatitis, cirrhosis, or liver cancer.

In its early stages, fatty liver is often benign and doesn’t severely impact liver function. With proper medical treatment and lifestyle changes, it can be effectively managed.

Dr. Khanh emphasizes that diet plays a crucial role in treatment and prevention. Below are four food groups patients should limit:

1. Sugary foods

High sugar intake contributes to weight gain, obesity, and type 2 diabetes—all of which raise the risk of fat accumulation in the liver.

Excess calories that aren’t used for energy are stored as triglycerides. When not metabolized efficiently, these fats collect in the liver. Diets rich in sugar also promote insulin resistance, making it harder for glucose to enter cells and resulting in elevated blood sugar levels. In response, the pancreas produces more insulin, further increasing fat buildup in the liver.

People with high blood sugar or insulin resistance should avoid sweets like candy, ice cream, and sugary desserts, and limit high-fructose fruits such as lychees, apples, bananas, and grapes.

2. Fried and high-cholesterol foods

Fried foods and those high in cholesterol—such as animal fat, organ meats, red meat, egg yolks, butter, cheese, and processed meats like sausages and bacon—can elevate blood triglyceride and LDL cholesterol levels, putting added strain on the liver.

Instead, patients should use plant-based oils, eat more leafy greens, and choose omega-3-rich fish like salmon, mackerel, sardines, and tuna to help reduce liver fat.

3. Canned and high-sodium foods

Frequent consumption of salty foods—like pickles, cured meats, fast food, and canned items—can lead to excessive salt intake, increasing fat deposits in the liver.

High-sodium diets may also raise leptin levels, cause fluid retention, increase body fat percentage, and promote insulin resistance. Over time, salt overload can trigger liver inflammation and fibrosis, accelerating disease progression.

Dr. Khanh advises families to keep meals lightly seasoned and limit daily salt intake to under 6 grams.

4. Carbohydrates-rich foods

Carbohydrates-rich foods such as white rice, potatoes, bread, instant noodles, crackers, and rice cakes can cause excess carbohydrates to be converted into fat, which may accumulate in the liver.

Switching to whole grains and brown rice can increase fiber intake, reduce fat consumption, and lower inflammation—key to managing fatty liver.