ArcaMax

Your liver isn't really chill -- in fact, it is very sensitive to stress. But what exactly stresses a liver? A high-fat diet is one major cause. Research out of MIT shows that when liver cells feel imperiled by excess fat careening into your liver, they revert to an immature state that helps them survive the fat bomb -- but also makes them more likely to become cancerous.

A healthy liver doesn't contain a lot of fat, and when it builds up to 5%-10%, you get health problems such as fatty liver disease (now called MASLD). Now, add to that the risk of liver cancer. Even today, the overall five-year survival rate is only around 20%, 38% for a localized condition and as low as 4% if it has spread.

How can you help your liver live long and prosper?

-- Wash produce/buy organic and avoid toxins in household cleaning products, gardening supplies and foods (yes, some additives are toxic).

-- Be aware of potential side effects from medications and supplements/herbs -- many are contaminated. Since 2000, there's been an 800% increase in herbal- and dietary-supplement-related liver failure in the U.S.

-- Drink moderately or abstain.

-- Avoid added sugars and syrups, which quickly convert to fat in the liver!

-- Prevent hepatitis A, B and C by getting vaccinated, practicing safe sex and washing hands frequently.

-- Coffee is good for your liver, so if you like it, continue to enjoy.

For more discussion of liver health, check out "Low Dose (Baby) Aspirin Cuts Liver Fat" at michaelfroizenmd.substack.com.

Health pioneer Michael Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer emeritus at the Cleveland Clinic and author of four No. 1 New York Times bestsellers. Check out his latest, "The Great Age Reboot: Cracking the Longevity Code for a Younger Tomorrow," and find out more at www.4YOUngevity.com. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Mike at questions@4YOUngevity.com.

(c)2026 Michael Roizen, M.D.

Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.

(c) 2026 Michael Roizen, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.