Can People with Fatty Liver Disease Smoke?

It is widely known that smoking has harmful effects on the lungs, but many are unaware that it can also damage the liver. For individuals with fatty liver disease, smoking is especially discouraged. Let's explore how smoking impacts fatty liver disease.

Smoking Increases the Toxic Burden on the Liver
Nicotine, one of the main components in cigarettes, is highly toxic to the human body. The more nicotine accumulates in the system, the greater the harm it causes. In fact, the amount of nicotine in just one cigarette can kill two mice, and the nicotine from 40 cigarettes can be lethal to an average-weight adult. In people with fatty liver disease, the liver's ability to detoxify is already compromised. The buildup of nicotine further stresses the liver, making it difficult for the organ to perform its essential detoxification functions effectively.

Smoking Worsens Liver Microcirculation
Fatty liver patients often experience impaired microcirculation within the liver. Nicotine can damage the circulatory system by causing blood vessels to constrict and increasing blood viscosity. This leads to even greater disruption of microcirculation. Additionally, carbon monoxide inhaled during smoking interferes with the ability of hemoglobin to carry oxygen, potentially causing tissue hypoxia.

Smoking Can Exacerbate Liver Damage
When individuals with fatty liver disease smoke heavily, the combination of reduced oxygen supply and impaired blood flow further damages the liver, potentially accelerating the progression of the disease and worsening overall liver function.

In addition to avoiding smoking, what else should individuals with fatty liver disease be mindful of?

Dietary Adjustments Are Crucial
Avoid high-fat, high-sugar, and high-calorie foods such as doughnuts, fried chicken, and chocolate. Instead, focus on foods rich in vitamins and fiber, including whole grains, vegetables, and fruits. These promote better liver health and aid in detoxification.

Avoid Alcohol Completely
Alcohol is primarily metabolized in the liver, and long-term consumption can lead to fat accumulation in liver cells. Chronic alcohol use can cause and worsen non-alcoholic fatty liver disease or lead to alcoholic fatty liver disease. Therefore, all alcoholic beverages—including beer, wine, and rice wine—should be completely avoided.

Regular Exercise Supports Liver Health
Engaging in regular physical activity, such as swimming or jogging, can significantly benefit those with fatty liver disease. For overweight individuals, losing weight can help reduce liver fat accumulation and improve overall liver function.

References:
[1] Xu Zhengjie, Fan Jiangao. Diagnosis and Treatment of Fatty Liver [M]. Shanghai: Shanghai Scientific and Technical Documents Press, 2020: 94.
[2] Dong Guangmin. Health Wisdom from the Compendium of Materia Medica: Dietary Remedies and Longevity Plans [M]. Beijing: Chinese Medical Ancient Books Publishing House, 2016.07: 260.