Sugar-Sweetened Beverages and the Rising Burden of NAFLD: Pathophysiology, Clinical Evidence, and Preventive Strategies

Abstract

A new worldwide health crisis, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is directly linked to food and way of life. One of the most important factors in the development and worsening of many diseases is the regular use of sugary drinks, especially energy drinks and cold drinks. An important factor in the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is fructose, a sugar found in many soft drinks. Fructose stimulates hepatic de novo lipogenesis, triglyceride buildup, oxidative stress, and also insulin resistance by evading normal glycolytic control. Metabolic dysfunction is worsened by the high fructose content and other ingredients found in cold beverages and energy drinks, such as caffeine, artificial flavors, preservatives, and sugar. In order to shed light on the pathophysiology of fatty liver and provide solutions for prevention and treatment, this review will examine the components of cold drinks and energy drinks, as well as fructose metabolism, and will draw from current clinical and experimental findings.  Hepatic steatosis, inflammatory conditions, and the development of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis are all positively correlated with regular consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages, according to recent research. In a similar vein, increased enzymes in the liver, mitochondrial dysfunction, and decreased hepatic metabolism have all been associated with long-term energy drink use. These results show that sugary and caffeinated drinks are bad for your liver, therefore people should cut less on them. This is why public health campaigns and dietary changes are needed.