Prof Joerg-Matthias Pollok, clinical lead of the HPB and liver transplant service at the Royal Free Hospital, highlighted the detrimental effects of alcohol consumption and unhealthy fatty foods on liver health. He explained that the accumulation of fat in liver cells can significantly reduce their viability and overall health, making them less suitable as donor organs.
In a recent statement, Prof Pollok emphasized the widespread exposure of individuals’ livers to potential damage caused by unhealthy lifestyle choices. Both alcohol consumption and the consumption of fatty foods have been identified as major contributors to liver fat accumulation. Prof Pollok described how these unhealthy habits can lead to the deposition of fat droplets in every single liver cell, impairing the organ’s functionality and rendering it less suitable for transplantation.
The liver plays a crucial role in the body’s metabolic processes and detoxification. However, excessive alcohol consumption and the consumption of unhealthy fatty foods can disrupt these functions, leading to the accumulation of fat in liver cells. This excess fat deposition, also known as hepatic steatosis, can result in the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a condition that affects millions of people worldwide.
Prof Pollok’s remarks shed light on the importance of maintaining a healthy liver and the potential consequences of poor lifestyle choices. He emphasized the need for individuals to be mindful of their alcohol consumption and dietary habits to minimize the risk of liver damage and improve organ health.
The Royal Free Hospital, where Prof Pollok serves as the clinical lead of the HPB and liver transplant service, is at the forefront of liver care and transplantation. The hospital’s team of experts is dedicated to providing the highest quality of care to patients with liver diseases, including those in need of liver transplants. The insights shared by Prof Pollok serve as a reminder of the significance of liver health and the importance of adopting healthy habits to preserve the viability of this vital organ.