Regular consumption of shawarma may cause liver damage, experts warn

Regular consumption of shawarma may cause liver damage, experts warn

Regular consumption of shawarma may cause liver damage, experts warn
June 10, 2025
5:56 am
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Regular consumption of shawarma may cause liver damage, experts warn

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Health experts have raised concerns over the high rate of consumption of fast foods such as shawarma, instant noodles, sugary sodas, and processed snacks among Nigerians, warning that such an unhealthy lifestyle could lead to liver damage.

According to them, these foods are high in unhealthy ingredients that can put a strain on the liver, leading to liver disease.

Speaking exclusively with PUNCH Healthwise, the physicians explained that while the liver plays a vital role in detoxifying the body, metabolising nutrients, and regulating various bodily functions, the consumption of unhealthy foods could compromise liver function, leading to conditions such as fatty liver disease, cirrhosis, and liver cancer.

The experts specifically highlighted the risks associated with consuming shawarma, noodles, and soda, citing their high content of saturated fats, salt, and sugar.

They warned that regular consumption of these foods could lead to liver inflammation, scarring, and damage.

A Consultant Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist at Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Dr. Ganiyat Oyeleke, stated that lifestyle and nutrition were now key drivers of liver-related diseases in Nigeria, with metabolic dysfunction-associated liver disease, formerly known as fatty liver disease, emerging as one of the most common liver conditions globally and locally.

The physician noted that the liver, the largest solid organ in the body and central to detoxification, metabolism, and digestion, is susceptible to what people consume.

According to her, dietary choices that are high in saturated fats, refined sugars, processed carbohydrates, and artificial preservatives contribute to fat accumulation in the liver and long-term liver damage.

“Deep-fried foods, repeated use of cooking oil, fast foods, and processed meats are packed with trans fats and preservatives that overwork the liver and trigger fat buildup. Once fat begins to accumulate, it leads to a condition now called MASLD. If not managed early, this can progress to fibrosis, and eventually liver cirrhosis,” she explained.

The expert singled out shawarma, instant noodles, sweetened cereals, pastries, cakes, soft drinks, and sugary snacks as common foods that contribute to the growing prevalence of liver problems in Nigeria.

She noted that their appeal and easy accessibility make them dangerous choices for everyday consumption, especially for people with sedentary lifestyles.

“These foods might be convenient and popular, especially among urban dwellers and professionals, but their health cost is significant. The liver bears the brunt of all the excess oils, sugars, and additives, often leading to inflammation and impaired liver function,” she said.

She further warned against the misconception that only hepatitis viruses cause liver disease.

While hepatitis remains a concern, the specialist clarified that MASLD has now overtaken viral infections as the leading cause of liver disease in many developed countries, a trend reflected in Nigeria due to increasing consumption of processed food and a decline in traditional dietary patterns.

The gastroenterologist also emphasised that liver disease often develops silently, without symptoms