Liver Disease No Longer Just About Alcohol: Young Adults, Non-Drinkers at Risk

Lifestyle News: Liver diseases have spread quietly, like an epidemic, across India, killing people and putting a load on the healthcare system. According to specialists, liver disease, which was formerly associated with heavy alcohol intake, is now affecting an increasing number of young adults and non-drinkers alike, indicating a concerning shift in risk factors. India has a surprising 268,580 liver disease deaths each year, accounting for more than 18% of all liver-related deaths worldwide, making it the leading contributor globally.

Expert opinion

“While alcohol-induced cirrhosis still plays a role, the real game-changer is the rise of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Recently reclassified as Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD), this condition reflects a deeper connection to metabolic disorders, particularly those rooted in our modern lifestyle,” Dr. Manoj Shrivastav, Program Director and Consultant, liver transplant and hepatobiliary surgeon, Ruby Hall Clinic, told media.

Eating Patterns—a major cause

Dr. Aditya Verma, a consultant gastroenterologist, believes one of the causes behind a major increase in liver disease is driven by eating habits. “Everyday food choices can either fuel liver damage or support healing,” he said, adding, “Urbanization, long working hours, sedentary routines, and a shift from traditional diets to processed, calorie-dense food have created a perfect storm for liver damage.”

Some more causes of liver damage

Dr. Aditya has also told some more contributors that damage a liver's health. These include Processed and sugary foods, lack of exercise, chronic stress, neglected metabolic conditions, and overuse of medication

How to prevent liver damage

Doctors say liver damage, particularly when caused by lifestyle factors, is frequently curable in its early stages. A few constant modifications that go a long way are:

• Consume a balanced diet high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.

• Limit your consumption of processed meals, fizzy drinks, and refined carbohydrates.

• Include physical activity in your daily routine, whether it's walking, jogging, yoga, or any other exercise that keeps you moving for 30 to 45 minutes.

• Work to maintain a healthy weight. Even a small weight decrease can drastically reduce fat deposition in the liver.

• Stay hydrated all day. Water helps the liver operate and flushes out poisons.

• Limit your alcohol consumption—even if MASLD is not alcoholic in origin, alcohol remains a significant danger to the liver. Moderation is crucial.

• Prioritise mental health and adequate sleep. Meditation, awareness, and adequate rest are critical for maintaining your body and liver in balance.

• Schedule regular health exams, particularly liver function testing, if you have risk factors such as obesity, diabetes, or a family history of liver disease.