Obesity and smoking: Doctor lists liver damage causes

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January 24, 2026 | 4:38pm

LONDON, United Kingdom — The human liver has more than 500 critical functions — including filtering toxins, creating bile to break down fats, and storing vitamin and minerals — and is the sole organ capable of repairing and regenerating itself if damaged or partially removed.

On the flipside are the organ's limits, as Dr. Angelo B. Lozada of Makati Medical Center points out, where an unhealthy lifestyle directly impacts the liver.

"Ingesting certain substances that aren't necessarily toxic could also do the liver harm," he said. "And like many diseases deemed 'silent killers' because they only present symptoms in their advanced stage, liver damage tends to go unnoticed because it shares similar symptoms with less life-threatening diseases."

The most obvious damaging cause to the liver is alcohol consumption, though Dr. Lozada points out four ounces of a hard drink can scar the liver and lead to cirrhosis — scarring that replaces healthy liver tissue and impedes blood flow.

Moderate drinking is always advised but the doctor suggests replacing alcohol with something healthier, like water, which helps the liver flush toxins out.

Over-the-counter pain killers like paracetamol, acetaminophen, aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen sodium are known to provide instant relief to a migraine, fever, or muscle ache, but too much can harm the liver.

As such Dr. Lozada advises the public to always follow the dosage recommended by one's healthcare provider.

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In the same lens, "natural" supplements that address certain nutrient deficiencies, boost athletic performance, and enhance overall well-being could potentially damage both the liver and kidneys.

"High doses of vitamin A, for instance, are not good for the liver," explained the doctor. "Best to get it from real food like salmon, leafy green vegetables, and orange and yellow veggies."

Obesity is often associated with cardiac diease, stroke, and diabetes. It can also lead to fatty liver disease where fat builds up in the organ.

"Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is a consequence of being overweight and developing fat around your midsection, having type II diabetes, and living sedentarily," said Dr. Lozada. "Fix it by cutting sugary food and trans-fat from your diet, exercising regularly, and getting down to your ideal weight."

Similarly, smoking doesn't just affect the lungs and heart, the toxic substances in cigarettes can cause oxidative stress in the liver which could lead to cirrhosis.

Chemicals in cigarette smoke are carcinogenic, which increases the risk of liver cancer. As such Dr. Lozada plainly advises everyone to quit smoking and vaping altogether.

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