Harvard-trained doctor busts popular fatty liver myths, shares real causes and prevention tips: 'It is not caused by fats...'

In a time when misconceptions about liver health abound, Dr. Saurabh Sethi—a gastroenterologist trained at Harvard and Stanford—has taken to social media to debunk common myths surrounding fatty liver disease. With rising cases of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) worldwide, especially in countries grappling with obesity, Dr. Sethi’s insights are striking a chord among health-conscious audiences.

Myth: Fatty Liver Is Caused by Eating Fat

Dr. Sethi begins by dismantling the widespread belief that fatty liver is directly linked to fat consumption. “The real culprits are high fructose foods and poor quality oils,” he explains in his video. He adds that healthy fats from sources like extra virgin olive oil, avocados, and nuts actually support liver health. These nutrient-dense foods are often wrongly demonized in popular diet culture.

This aligns with findings from the Mayo Clinic, which emphasize that liver fat accumulation is more closely tied to excessive sugar intake, particularly fructose, and unhealthy oils rather than dietary fats from wholesome sources.

Myth: Fatty Liver Is Harmless

The second myth Dr. Sethi addresses is the assumption that fatty liver is a benign condition. “Fatty liver can progress to more severe conditions like non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, fibrosis, and even cirrhosis if left untreated,” he warns.

Mayo Clinic reports corroborate this concern, highlighting that NAFLD can silently progress to liver inflammation (NASH), scarring (fibrosis), or life-threatening liver failure if not managed properly. Despite its often asymptomatic nature, untreated fatty liver can lead to serious complications like liver cancer and end-stage liver disease.

Myth: Supplements Are Necessary for Treatment

The final misconception Dr. Sethi confronts is the idea that fatty liver cannot be reversed through diet alone. He refutes this by stating that diet modifications—especially reducing high fructose foods and unhealthy oils while embracing whole, unprocessed foods—can significantly improve liver health. Pairing this with regular exercise, he stresses, can even reverse the condition when addressed early.

Experts agree. The Mayo Clinic outlines that adopting a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats can help prevent and manage NAFLD. Regular physical activity and gradual weight loss further contribute to better liver function.

Real Causes of Fatty Liver

According to Mayo Clinic research, NAFLD is most commonly linked to obesity, insulin resistance, high blood sugar, and elevated blood fats like triglycerides. Genetics also plays a role in determining why some individuals develop fatty liver while others do not. People over 50, those with metabolic syndrome, or those with high cholesterol or type 2 diabetes are particularly at risk.

Dr. Sethi’s emphasis on addressing lifestyle factors resonates with these findings. “A diet low in processed sugars and unhealthy oils, along with an active lifestyle, can make a profound difference,” he says.

Preventive Strategies for Liver Health

Experts advise that prevention begins with conscious food choices and physical activity. The Mayo Clinic recommends a diet abundant in fiber-rich fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats while limiting sugary drinks, alcohol, and oversized portions. Exercise should be part of the daily routine, with a focus on steady and manageable weight control.

For those already facing liver issues, the advice is clear: early intervention through diet and exercise can halt or reverse the progression of fatty liver disease.

With fatty liver becoming one of the most common liver diseases globally, Dr. Sethi’s message offers both clarity and hope. It’s a reminder that prevention starts with informed choices—and that even deeply entrenched myths can be overcome with science-backed strategies and simple, sustainable lifestyle changes.