- Betson V
- May 19, 2023
Do you often feel tired and sluggish despite a good night’s sleep? Do you struggle with unexplained weight gain or difficulty losing weight no matter how much you exercise? If so, it could be a sign of fatty liver. Read on to know about some common signs and symptoms of fatty liver and tips for early detection.
Most people think of fatty liver as something that only alcoholics suffer from. However, fatty liver can affect anyone. Did you know, around 9 – 32% of the Indian population has some degree of fatty liver? Accumulation of fat in the liver cells causes fatty liver. It can occur for various reasons, such as obesity, diabetes, excess fat in the diet, high triglycerides, and excess alcohol consumption. Certain medications, such as steroids and cholesterol-lowering drugs, can also cause fatty liver. If the condition progresses to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), it can lead to liver inflammation and potentially even liver failure.
The tricky part is fatty liver is often a silent disease with few or no symptoms. However, some people may experience fatigue, weight loss, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, pain in the upper right abdomen, dark urine, and yellowing of the skin or eyes. If left untreated, fatty liver can lead to more severe problems such as cirrhosis or liver cancer.
A quick fix is to change your diet and modify your lifestyle, which can go a long way in reversing the condition. Here are some tips to prevent or recover from fatty liver, if it was recently detected…
Eat a Healthy Diet
Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. Avoid processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive consumption of alcohol.
Exercise Regularly
Regular exercise helps your body burn excess fat and calories. It also promotes good circulation and helps keep your liver healthy.
Stay Hydrated
Drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day to support liver function and overall health.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Being overweight is one of the most significant risk factors for developing fatty liver. Losing even a few kilos can make a big big difference in your recovery.
Quit Smoking
Smoking damages your liver and makes it harder for it to function correctly. If you smoke, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your health.
Reduce Stress
Stress can worsen fatty liver, so finding ways to manage your stress levels is essential. Try including yoga and meditation in your daily routine.
Manage Chronic Conditions
Manage conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol to minimize the risk of fatty liver disease.
Seek Professional Guidance
If you have been diagnosed with fatty liver, consult a healthcare professional who can provide personalized recommendations and monitor your progress.
To conclude, fatty liver is a serious yet often overlooked condition. By following these simple steps and being mindful of any potential warning signs, you can help protect your liver from further damage caused by fatty liver.