Answer:

Milk tea contains high levels of sugar and saturated fat from creamer, condensed milk, and toppings like tapioca pearls, jelly, and cheese. Consuming too much sugar and fat over time can overwork the liver, potentially leading to fatty liver disease and elevated liver enzymes. Some commercially prepared milk teas contain artificial flavorings, sweeteners, or additives that are not beneficial for the liver with frequent consumption.

A large size (500-700 ml) milk tea can contain 300-500 kcal, equivalent to 6-8 teaspoons of sugar. Daily consumption can cause the liver to accumulate excess fat, resulting in increased liver enzymes, lipid disorders, and a higher risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

Limit milk tea consumption to protect liver function. Photo: Trong Nghia

You could occasionally drink one or two small cups a week (250-300 ml), opting for less sugar and fewer fatty toppings. If you have fatty liver disease, elevated liver enzymes, diabetes, or obesity, you should limit or avoid milk tea entirely. You can make milk tea at home with green tea, unsweetened fresh milk, and add chia seeds or tapioca pearls made from sweet potato flour to reduce sugar and increase fiber intake.

Maintain a balanced diet rich in vegetables and fruits, and exercise regularly. Schedule regular check-ups with a gastroenterologist or nutritionist to monitor your liver function and develop a diet plan tailored to your health condition. Supplementing with natural extracts like s.marianum and wasabia can help control kupffer cell activity (resident macrophages in the liver), enhance detoxification, lower liver enzymes, and support liver recovery from hepatitis and fatty liver disease.

MSc. Dr. Nguyen Anh Duy Tung

Dietary Restriction Department

Tam Anh General Clinic, District 7