Foods To Avoid A Fatty Liver

The American Liver Foundation (ALF) defines a fatty liver as "the build-up of excess fat in the liver cells." One of the biggest risk factors for a fatty liver is obesity, which is caused by excess calorie consumption. Other risk factors include diabetes, high cholesterol or triglycerides, alcohol abuse, gastric bypass surgery, certain medications and malnutrition. There is no standard treatment for fatty liver but the Mayo Clinic says weight loss through a healthy diet and exercise can help prevent a fatty liver.

Fruits, Vegetables and Whole Grains

The Mayo Clinic says a healthy diet is rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Fruits, vegetables and whole grains are naturally low in calories and fat but high in fiber. According to the American Dietetic Association fibrous foods increase the feeling of fullness that can prevent overeating and subsequent weight gain. Fiber-rich diets can also prevent type 2 diabetes, a risk factor for a fatty liver.

Protein and Dairy

The best proteins to support weight maintenance and weight loss are from lean sources like poultry, eggs, soy, lean meats, fish, seafood, beans and legumes. Excess fat and calories can be reduced by removing all visible fat and skin from meat and poultry prior to cooking and using healthy methods to cook foods like grilling, steaming, broiling, baking, roasting and poaching. The healthiest dairy products include low-fat or non-fat milk, yogurt and cheese.

Low-Cholesterol Foods

Cholesterol is a type of fat found in animal products. The Mayo Clinic recommends a low-cholesterol, plant-based diet to reduce triglycerides and the risk of a fatty liver. Fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts, seeds, beans and legumes are naturally cholesterol-free. Egg whites are also cholesterol-free because all of the cholesterol in an egg is in the yolk.

Unsaturated Fats

The Mayo Clinic encourages people with a fatty liver to consume unsaturated fats from olive and vegetable oils, nuts, avocado and fish. Saturated fats like butter, lard, shortening and cream increase blood fat and the risk of a fatty liver.

Non-alcoholic Beverages

Alcohol puts stress on the liver and is closely tied to liver disease. According to the California Pacific Medical Center as little as one glass of beer or wine a week can contribute to a fatty liver. The ALF encourages individuals with a fatty liver to avoid all alcohol. Examples of non-alcoholic beverages include water, juice, soda, tea, coffee, sports drinks and milk.