In an era where wellness trends often dominate social media, a Harvard and Stanford-trained gastroenterologist, Dr Saurabh Sethi, has shared a highly informative ranking of 10 common beverages for liver health. The Instagram reel posted on June 28 has gone viral for its scientific yet relatable insight into what you should — and shouldn’t — drink for liver wellness.
Dr Sethi, a gut and liver specialist, ranked each drink on a scale of 1 to 10 based on its positive or negative effect on liver health, with 10 being the best.
Why Liver Health Matters
The liver is a crucial organ responsible for over 500 vital functions — including detoxifying blood, producing bile, and regulating blood sugar and cholesterol. Poor dietary choices, alcohol, processed food, and sugary beverages can lead to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and other liver disorders.
Understanding which everyday drinks support liver function is key to preventing long-term complications.
Top 10 Drinks for Liver Health Ranked by Dr Saurabh Sethi
Here’s how Dr Sethi rated 10 commonly consumed beverages, along with brief explanations:
1. Water — 10/10
- Best drink for liver health
- Helps flush toxins and supports all metabolic functions
- Keeps liver cells hydrated and functional
💡 Tip: Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water daily for optimal liver function.
2. Black Coffee — 9/10
- Rich in antioxidants like polyphenols
- Studies show coffee may protect against liver fibrosis and cirrhosis
- May reduce risk of liver cancer and fatty liver disease
3. Green Tea — 8/10
- Contains catechins that reduce liver fat accumulation
- Promotes liver detoxification enzymes
- Must be consumed in moderation (avoid supplements)
4. Beetroot Juice — 8/10
- Packed with nitrates and betalains
- Supports liver’s detox pathways
- May help reduce oxidative stress
5. Lemon Water — 7/10
- Vitamin C-rich; promotes bile production
- Aids digestion and indirectly supports liver
- Works best when consumed warm on an empty stomach
6. Green Smoothies — 6/10
- Depends on ingredients — leafy greens are good, but added sugars may reduce benefits
- Ideal when made with spinach, kale, and no added sugar
7. Coconut Water — 5/10
- Hydrating and low in sugar
- Contains electrolytes but limited direct liver benefits
8. Herbal Teas (Chamomile, Dandelion) — 5/10
- May help calm the body and support digestion
- Some herbs like dandelion root are liver-friendly but need more evidence
9. Energy Drinks — 2/10
- High in caffeine and artificial ingredients
- Linked with liver inflammation and enzyme imbalance
- Dr Sethi warns against regular consumption
10. Store-Bought Fruit Juice — 1/10
- Often contains added sugars, preservatives, and low fiber
- Can increase liver fat and insulin resistance
- “One popular drink does more harm than good,” said Dr Sethi
Drinks to Avoid for Liver Health
Dr Sethi urges people to be cautious of certain “healthy-seeming” drinks:
- Packaged juices and smoothies: Often marketed as healthy but loaded with sugar
- Sweetened teas and sodas: Promote fatty liver due to high-fructose corn syrup
- Alcoholic drinks: Should be limited or avoided if liver health is a concern
What’s the Best Drink for the Liver?
✅ Water remains the ultimate winner — earning a perfect 10/10 score.
It is zero-calorie, flushes out toxins, and is essential for nearly every liver function. Second place goes to black coffee, with solid scientific backing for its liver-protective benefits.
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Is Beetroot Juice Better than Green Smoothies or Lemon Water?
Based on Dr Sethi’s scale:
- Beetroot juice (8/10) ranks higher than green smoothies (6/10) and lemon water (7/10)
- However, all three can benefit the liver if consumed in moderation
- Personal health goals and individual tolerances matter
Quick Tips for a Liver-Friendly Lifestyle
- Stay hydrated with water and herbal teas
- Limit alcohol and sugary beverages
- Choose whole fruits over juices
- Include liver-friendly foods like garlic, turmeric, and leafy greens
What This Means for You
If you’re someone who drinks store-bought fruit juice or energy drinks regularly, it’s time to reassess. Instead, switch to hydrating, antioxidant-rich drinks like water, green tea, or black coffee (if tolerated).
And while beetroot juice is a rising star for natural liver detox, it’s best consumed fresh and unsweetened.
Final Words from Dr Sethi
“Your liver works 24/7 to detox your body. The least you can do is support it by avoiding things that burden it unnecessarily,” Dr Sethi concluded in his video.
Conclusion
Choosing the right beverages for liver health can be simple yet powerful. From water and coffee to beetroot juice and green tea, make informed choices every day. Your liver will thank you!
