FATTY LIVER
Fatty liver disease is a build-up of fats in the liver that can damage the organ and lead to serious complications. It affects about one in every 10 people. It is normal for the liver to contain some fat, but if fat accounts for more than 10 percent of the liver’s weight, then you have a fatty liver and you may develop more serious complications. Fatty liver may cause no damage, but sometimes the excess fat leads to liver inflammation. This condition, called steatohepatitis, does cause liver damage. Sometimes, inflammation from a fatty liver is linked to alcohol abuse. This is known as alcoholic steatohepatitis. Otherwise, the condition is called non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, or NASH.
Risk factors for fatty liver disease
- Overweight (body mass index of 25-30)
- Obesity (body mass index above 30)
- Diabetes
- Elevated triglyceride levels
- Drinking too much alcohol
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
Fatty liver disease usually doesn’t cause symptoms. People who have symptoms may:
Feel tired or generally unwell
have pain in the upper right part of their abdomen
lose weight
Signs that you may have more serious fatty liver disease include:
- yellow eyes and skin (jaundice)
- bruising
- dark urine
- swollen tummy
- vomiting blood
- black stools (poos)
- itchy skin
Grades of Fatty Liver:
Based on the visual changes observed on the ultrasound, the fatty liver is graded into three:
- Grade I – This is the mildest form. Here, the fat accumulates outside the organ and does not affect its function.
- Grade II – It is a moderately severe form and requires medical intervention to prevent worsening.
- Grade III – It is a severe form of fatty liver, with the appearance of symptoms. Active treatments are required.
TREATMENT AND DIETARY TIPS :
- Follow a healthy diet and avoid sugar
- Lose weight
- Exercise regularly
- Control your blood sugar
- Treat high cholesterol if you have it
- Avoid medicines that can affect your liver
- Drink no or very little alcohol, and quit smoking
- The Mediterranean diet emphasizes a high intake of vegetables, fruits, and healthy fats.
- Foods in a liver-friendly diet include whole grains, nuts, and legumes.
- Lean meats should be consumed in moderation and red meats should be totally avoided.
Get a personalized diet plan for your diabetes Click Here to book a free online consultation with our dietitian.