Non-alcoholic fatty liver is a disease spread throughout the world affecting 25-30% of the population. The most common causes of fatty liver are: excess body weight, increased levels of glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides, and a sedentary lifestyle. However, recently the appearance of fatty liver has also been associated with exposure to some heavy metals.
Metals present in tobacco
In several studies, in which 2,846 patients have been included, it has been proven that there is, especially in men, an association between exposure to nickel and fatty liver. This exposure to nickel occurs through inhalation of dust particles or contact through the skin. Low levels of nickel are found in the air, water and in some foods, with higher levels in cigarettes and tobacco smoke. Apart from smokers, workers in the food industry, household cleaning companies and metalworking companies are considered to have a higher probability of exposure to nickel.
Cadmium, iron and lead as harmful elements
Another metal that has been associated with the development of fatty liver is cadmium, as described in two studies with 15,886 people. The form of exposure to cadmium is similar to nickel, with car welders being the profession with the highest risk of exposure to this metal.
An association between heavy metals and fatty liver has also been observed in another study with 5,445 people, again especially in men. This is possibly explained by the blood loss that occurs in women during menstruation, with the consequent decrease in iron. Iron is found in notable quantities in many types of foods such as clams, cockles, lentils, eggs, etc.
Exposure to lead is also associated with fatty liver, particularly in women. Lead is present in pipes, plates or glasses, foods and cigarettes. People at greatest occupational risk for lead exposure are those who work in construction, car mechanics, and those who manufacture car batteries.
Copper, a possible ally?
On the contrary, copper seems to have a protective effect against fatty liver in men but not in women, as reported in a study with 101,510 people. The reason for the disparity between the association of copper exposure and the development of fatty liver in men and women is not known, but it could be due to the hormonal difference. Foods rich in copper include seafood, legumes, nuts, almonds and organ meats (liver and kidney).
In summary, there is an association between exposure to heavy metals (such as nickel, cadmium, iron or lead) and the development of fatty liver, although high levels of copper appear to have a protective effect in men.
At the Foundation, Dr. Carreño‘s team recommends patients with fatty liver to restrict the intake of foods rich in heavy metals to reduce exposure to them.
