Fatty liver disease is a condition characterized by excessive fat accumulation in liver cells. It can lead to liver failure over time. It is mainly associated with metabolic disorders, poor eating habits, and a sedentary lifestyle.
Main types of fatty liver disease
1. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD):
A buildup of fat in the liver that is not related to alcohol consumption, often associated with obesity, diabetes, and metabolic diseases.
2. Alcoholic fatty liver disease (AFLD): A buildup of fat due to excessive alcohol consumption.
It can progress to liver inflammation and cirrhosis.
Causes and risk factors
Several factors contribute to the development of fatty liver disease.
1. Metabolic factors:
• Obesity and excess body fat, especially abdominal fat.
• Insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.
• High blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
• Metabolic syndrome (a group of conditions including high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and excess fat around the waist).
2.Diet and lifestyle factors:
• High consumption of refined carbohydrates and processed foods.
• High consumption of saturated fats and sugars.
• Sedentary lifestyle with little physical activity.
3.Alcohol-related factors:
• Chronic heavy alcohol consumption damages liver cells, leading to fat accumulation and inflammation.
Stages
Stage 1 – Simple fatty liver (Steatosis): Fat accumulation without inflammation or damage (reversible).
Stage -2– Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH): Fat accumulation with inflammation and liver cell damage (reversible with intervention).
Stage -3– Fibrosis: Scarring begins to replace healthy tissue (partially reversible, but scarring may persist).
Stage -4– Cirrhosis: Extensive scarring leading to severe liver dysfunction (irreversible, can lead to liver failure).
Symptoms
Fatty liver disease is often asymptomatic in its early stages but may present with the following symptoms.
Early symptoms:
• Fatigue and general weakness.
• Mild discomfort or pain in the upper right abdomen.
• Unexplained weight gain or difficulty losing weight.
Acute symptoms (when the liver is damaged):
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes).
• Swelling in the abdomen and legs (fluid retention).
• Dark-colored urine and pale stools.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Confusion or difficulty concentrating (in severe cases, hepatic encephalopathy).
Diagnosis
• Liver function tests (ALT, AST, ALP, and bilirubin levels).
• Lipid Profile – to assess cholesterol and triglycerides.
• Fasting blood sugar and HbA1c – to screen for diabetes
• Ultrasound/US Scan: detects fatty deposits in the liver.
• CT Scan or MRI: provides more detailed images of liver tissue.
• FibroScan: measures the stiffness of the liver to assess fibrosis (scarring) and rule out other liver diseases.
• Liver Biopsy (in severe cases): determines the extent of liver damage and rules out other liver diseases.
Prevention and Treatment
• Lifestyle and Dietary Changes
• A healthy diet and regular physical activity are essential for the management and prevention of fatty liver disease.
Recommended Diet:
• High-fiber foods: whole grains, vegetables, and fruits.
• Healthy fats: avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil.
• Proteins: fish, poultry, tofu, and legumes.
• Antioxidant-rich foods: green vegetables, spinach, and turmeric.
• Adequate hydration: Drink plenty of water to help flush out toxins from the liver.
Foods to Avoid:
• Processed and fast foods high in trans fats and preservatives.
• Sugary drinks and refined carbohydrates (soda, white bread, pastries).
• Excessive alcohol and caffeine.
• Red meat and high-fat dairy products in excess.
Exercise and weight management
• Regular physical activity:
• At least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week (brisk walking, cycling or swimming).
• Weight lifting to improve insulin sensitivity.
• Weight loss:
• Losing 5-10% of body weight can significantly reduce liver fat.
Treatment:
• Heen Bovitiya – Protects the liver.
• Yakinaran – Purifies the srotas
• Monarakudumbia – Protects the liver.
• Pitavakka: Detoxifies and rejuvenates liver cells.
• Triphala: Supports digestion and liver function.
• Katukasosana: A strong liver protective medicine. An herb that metabolizes fat.
• Sarana: Helps reduce swelling and fat accumulation in the liver.
• Rasakinda: Balances bile and detoxifies the liver.
• Heen Binkohomba: Improves liver health.
Complications
If left untreated, fatty liver disease can progress to more severe conditions, such as:
• Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH): Can lead to fibrosis
• Liver fibrosis: Scarring of liver tissue.
• Cirrhosis: Can lead to liver failure
• Liver cancer: Increased risk in people with cirrhosis.
Fatty liver disease is a growing health problem linked to obesity, poor diet, and a sedentary lifestyle. Although the early stages can be reversed with lifestyle changes, ignoring the condition can lead to serious liver complications. The best approach to managing fatty liver disease is to eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, manage weight, and control existing metabolic conditions. Regular medical checkups and early intervention can prevent disease progression and improve liver health.
