Medical Professionals have raised concerns over the high rate of consumption of fast foods such as shawarma, instant noodles, sugary sodas, and processed snacks among Nigerians, warning that such an unhealthy lifestyle could lead to liver damage.
According to them, these foods are high in unhealthy ingredients that can put a strain on the liver, leading to liver disease.
In an interview with PUNCH Healthwise, the physicians explained that while the liver plays a vital role in detoxifying the body, metabolising nutrients, and regulating various bodily functions, the consumption of unhealthy foods could compromise liver function, leading to conditions such as fatty liver disease, cirrhosis, and liver cancer.
The experts specifically highlighted the risks associated with consuming shawarma, noodles, and soda, citing their high content of saturated fats, salt, and sugar.
They warned that regular consumption of these foods could lead to liver inflammation, scarring, and damage.
A Consultant Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist at Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Dr. Ganiyat Oyeleke, stated that lifestyle and nutrition were now key drivers of liver-related diseases in Nigeria, with metabolic dysfunction-associated liver disease, formerly known as fatty liver disease, emerging as one of the most common liver conditions globally and locally.
The physician noted that the liver, the largest solid organ in the body and central to detoxification, metabolism, and digestion, is susceptible to what people consume.
According to her, dietary choices that are high in saturated fats, refined sugars, processed carbohydrates, and artificial preservatives contribute to fat accumulation in the liver and long-term liver damage.
“Deep-fried foods, repeated use of cooking oil, fast foods, and processed meats are packed with trans fats and preservatives that overwork the liver and trigger fat buildup.
Once fat begins to accumulate, it leads to a condition now called MASLD. If not managed early, this can progress to fibrosis, and eventually liver cirrhosis,” she explained.
The expert singled out shawarma, instant noodles, sweetened cereals, pastries, cakes, soft drinks, and sugary snacks as common foods that contribute to the growing prevalence of liver problems in Nigeria.
She noted that their appeal and easy accessibility make them dangerous choices for everyday consumption, especially for people with sedentary lifestyles.
“These foods might be convenient and popular, especially among urban dwellers and professionals, but their health cost is significant.
The liver bears the brunt of all the excess oils, sugars, and additives, often leading to inflammation and impaired liver function,” she said.
She further warned against the misconception that only hepatitis viruses cause liver disease.
While hepatitis remains a concern, the specialist clarified that MASLD has now overtaken viral infections as the leading cause of liver disease in many developed countries, a trend reflected in Nigeria due to increasing consumption of processed food and a decline in traditional dietary patterns.
The gastroenterologist also emphasised that liver disease often develops silently, without symptoms.
“People think they are fine because they feel fine, but early liver disease doesn’t present obvious signs. By the time yellowing of the eyes or skin appears, significant liver damage may have already occurred,” she cautioned.
To promote liver health, she recommended increased consumption of natural, antioxidant-rich foods readily available in Nigeria.
These include green leafy vegetables like a bitter leaf, ugu (fluted pumpkin), and African spinach (efo), along with fruits such as pawpaw, watermelon, oranges, and lemons.
She explained that these foods support liver detoxification, enhance bile production for digestion, and help prevent fat buildup.
She added that whole grains and legumes such as millet, guinea corn, sorghum, and beans are beneficial for reducing liver inflammation and promoting healthy metabolism.
The hepatologist advised Nigerians to consume fats in moderation, prioritising plant-based sources such as avocados, coconuts, and nuts, while avoiding excessive animal fats.
She also noted that palm oil, when consumed in moderation, can provide Vitamin E, which supports liver health.
On alcohol consumption, the physician warned that both industrial and locally brewed alcoholic drinks, including ogogoro, buraku, kai kai, and palm wine, pose significant risks to liver health when consumed excessively.
“Alcohol prioritises itself in liver metabolism, leaving other toxins to accumulate. This not only impairs liver function but also accelerates liver disease,” she said.
The expert also addressed the growing use of unregulated herbal mixtures and traditional remedies, which are often perceived as safe due to their natural origin.
She noted that many of these concoctions are unmeasured, potentially toxic, and harmful to liver function.
“I recently treated a patient who developed jaundice after using herbal medicine for another illness. These remedies are not harmless, especially when used indiscriminately,” she said.
Providing practical advice on how to maintain a liver-friendly diet in today’s fast-paced world, the consultant encouraged meal planning and healthier cooking alternatives such as grilling, steaming, and stir-frying instead of deep-frying.
She urged people to avoid overeating and late-night meals, especially after long workdays.
“It is about awareness and making better choices. We can enjoy our meals without harming our liver.
If you love fried foods like small chops, understand that they should be occasional treats, not daily staples,” she said.
She recommended natural snacks such as cucumbers, carrots, watermelon, groundnuts, and walnuts instead of processed biscuits and sugary treats.
On the myths surrounding liver disease, she clarified that the absence of symptoms does not equal good liver health.
She also debunked the notion that people with liver disease must avoid protein.
“What we discourage is high-fat, sugary, and salty food, not protein. A balanced diet is essential, even for those living with liver disease,” she stated.
She advised Nigerians to undergo liver function tests and abdominal scans at least once a year, even in the absence of symptoms, to detect potential liver conditions early.