Liver cancer incidence and mortality rates are higher in men than in women, particularly among those over 50. Even with early detection, the 5-year survival rate is only 34%, and the overall survival rate for all patients is a mere 20%. Nevertheless, improving diet and lifestyle habits remains the most effective method for preventing liver cancer.

Doctor Qian Zhenghong, a specialist in gastroenterology and hepatobiliary medicine in Taiwan (China), once shared the case of a 63-year-old Japanese male patient. After being diagnosed with liver cancer, involving a tumor approximately 6 cm in size, the patient chose not to undergo chemotherapy. Instead, he committed to quitting smoking and abstaining from alcohol. Surprisingly, the tumor subsequently disappeared on its own.

To maintain a healthy liver, experts recommend severely limiting the following three liver-damaging food groups:

Sweets

The detrimental effects of sugar on the liver are comparable to those of alcohol. Eliminate or restrict foods high in sugar, such as pastries, biscuits, carbonated soft drinks, and bottled fruit juices. High blood sugar levels increase fat accumulation in the liver.

According to data from the American Nutrition Association, women who consume one or more sugary drinks daily have up to a 78% higher risk of developing liver cancer.

Regular consumption of fried foods harms the liver. Illustration: Bui Thuy

Fried foods

Fried dishes are extremely high in fat and calories, directly triggering chronic inflammatory responses in the liver.

Salt

Excessive salt intake leads to edema. The recommended daily sodium consumption should be limited to under 2,400 mg (equivalent to about one teaspoon of salt). Patients already experiencing ascites, caused by cirrhosis, must adhere to a strict low-salt diet.

Furthermore, when experiencing headaches, flu, or fever, it is crucial not to indiscriminately self-medicate with painkillers. This is especially true for medications containing Acetaminophen (Paracetamol).

Statistics from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) indicate that Acetaminophen poisoning is a leading cause of acute liver failure in the United States, significantly increasing the risk of mortality.

By My Y (Source: HK01)