By: Sanya Panwar
Published: Aug 14, 2025 | 1:21 PM IST
Fatty liver disease among children is emerging as a major global health concern. If left untreated, the condition can progress to severe liver damage — including cirrhosis — and, in extreme cases, may require a liver transplant.
Sugar’s Hidden Threat
In an Instagram video posted on August 13, Dr Saurabh Sethi, a gastroenterologist trained at AIIMS (India), Harvard University, and Stanford University, explained the role of sugary foods and beverages — particularly soft drinks — in triggering non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in children.
“Serving your kid sugary foods like pastries, soft drinks, or cookies can be harmful. Sugar is 50% glucose and 50% fructose. While glucose provides energy to the body, excess fructose is converted into fat in the liver, which can lead to fatty liver,” Dr Sethi warned.
He noted that if the condition is not treated in time, it can progress to cirrhosis and even require liver transplantation in severe cases — a possibility even in children.
Who is Dr Saurabh Sethi?
- MD, MPH — Board-certified gastroenterologist, hepatologist, and interventional endoscopist.
- Education & Training:
- MBBS: AIIMS, India
- MPH: University of Texas
- Gastroenterology & Hepatology Fellowship: Harvard University
- Advanced Endoscopy Fellowship: Stanford University
Why Fatty Liver in Kids Is Rising
NAFLD in children is linked to poor dietary habits, particularly high consumption of:
- Sugary soft drinks
- Packaged juices
- Pastries and sweets
- Ultra-processed foods
The fructose in these foods is metabolized in the liver, where excess amounts are stored as fat, eventually impairing liver function.
Expert Insights on Prevention
Other specialists agree on the urgent need for dietary changes to protect children’s liver health.
- Dr Pavan Dhoble (Consultant, Gastroenterology, PD Hinduja Hospital, Mumbai) identified three key contributors to liver damage: excessive sugar, sedentary lifestyle, and obesity.
- Dr Dinesh Zirpe (Director, Liver Transplantation, Sahyadri Super Speciality Hospital, Pune) advised:
- Limit sugary drinks and ultra-processed foods.
- Encourage physical activity.
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Bottom Line
Immediate takeaway for parents: Washing down a burger with a soda might seem harmless, but over time, these dietary choices can damage your child’s liver in ways that may be irreversible without major medical intervention.
Note: This article is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.
Image Source: Google
Image Credit: Respective Owner
