A 10-year study concludes that not only sugary drinks can damage the liver, but also those sweetened by 60 percent.
Just one can of a sugary or artificially sweetened drink a day may increase the risk of developing metabolically impaired liver disease (MASLD), according to a new study.
Presented at the European Union Gastroenterology Week in Berlin. The research followed 123,788 UK participants without the disease for a decade. Beverage consumption was recorded using daily dietary questionnaires. Over 10 years, 1,178 participants developed MASLD and 108 died from liver-related conditions.
The findings showed that consuming sugary drinks increased the risk of MASLD by 50%. While consuming sweetened beverages increased it by 60%. Artificially sweetened beverages were also associated with a higher likelihood of death linked to liver disease.
MASLD, formerly known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. It occurs when fat accumulates in the liver, which can cause inflammation (hepatitis), pain, fatigue, and loss of appetite. It is also increasingly recognized as a major contributor to cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and kidney problems.
A 2025 meta-analysis of 92 studies estimated that 38% of the global population has MASLD. A 50% increase over the past 20 years. “Sugary drinks have long been under scrutiny. Also while their dietary alternatives are often considered the healthier option. However, both are widely consumed, and their effects on liver health have not been well understood,” says Lihe Liu, lead author of the research.
“Our study shows that sugar-sweetened beverages are actually linked to an increased risk of MASLD. Even at modest consumption levels such as a single can per day. These findings challenge the common perception that these beverages are harmless and highlight the need to reconsider their role in diet and liver health. Especially as MASLD emerges as a global health concern,” Liu adds.
How do sugary drinks harm the liver?
The research team explains how these beverages can harm the liver. “The higher sugar content in soft drinks can cause rapid spikes in blood glucose and insulin. Promote weight gain, and increase uric acid levels. All of which contribute to fat accumulation in the liver,” Liu explains.
“Sweeten drinks, on the other hand, can affect liver health by altering the gut microbiome. Disrupting feelings of satiety, increasing cravings for sweets, and even stimulating insulin secretion.”
Research points to practices such as drinking water instead of sugary or artificially sweetened beverages. Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and adopting a balanced diet to significantly reduce the risk of liver disease. “Water remains the best option, as it eliminates metabolic burden and prevents fat accumulation in the liver, while hydrating the body,” the scientist concludes.
With information from Euronews
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