Fatty liver is also known as fatty liver disease. As the name suggests, it is the accumulation of excess fat in the liver. When the fat in the liver exceeds 5% of the liver weight or steatosis over 30% of hepatocytes, it is called fatty liver. Fatty liver is not an independent disease, but a pathological change in the liver. Many factors can cause fatty liver, such as obesity, long-term or heavy drinking, type 2 diabetes, hyperlipidemia, drugs, pregnancy, hepatitis virus infection. But the people who have thin body or malnutrition can also have fatty liver.
Classification of fatty liver
According to the etiology, fatty liver is clinically classified into nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and alcoholic fatty liver disease (ALD). ALD is a liver disease caused by long term heavy drinking. NAFLD refers to the causes with the exception of alcohol and other definite liver damage factors. It is divided into simple fatty liver, steatohepatitis, liver cirrhosis and liver cancer. NAFLD is the hepatic manifestation of metabolic syndrome (hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, and hypertension).
The symptoms and hazards of fatty liver
Most patients with fatty liver have no symptoms and are found in routine health examination. Some patients may have fatigue, mild discomfort in the right upper abdomen , abdominal pain, and other non-specific symptoms. Severe steatohepatitis can be characterized by jaundice, anorexia, nausea, vomiting and other symptoms. When it develops to liver cirrhosis, patients can have serious complications, such as ascites and bleeding. However, the harm of fatty liver is not limited to the liver. What’s more important is the potential diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The latter is often the primary cause of the death of fatty liver!
How to define the severity of fatty liver?
Serum aminotransferase levels in patients with NAFLD could be normal , as well as slightly or moderately elevated. Ultrasound diagnosis of fatty liver diseases is an important and practical method. In recent years, non-invasive liver fibrosis examination FibroScan has developed and can evaluate the degree of liver fibrosis and cirrhosis in the development of fatty liver by measuring the liver stiffness. It can also quantified the degree of hepatic steatosis through the CAP value and avoid the invasive and bleeding risk of liver biopsy.
How to prevent and cure fatty liver?
Although the fatty liver disease is insidious onset and develops slowly, once found, we should actively seek the cause and try to eliminate it. Quiting drinking is the primary task for ALD patients. The basic principle of preventing and treating fatty liver is to control the diet, to increase the amount of exercise, to reduce the weight and to correct the unhealthy lifestyle (control your diet, work out your body). Anti-inflammatory and liver-protective drugs can be used in fatty liver patients with abnormal liver function.
Fatty liver dietary taboos：
1. Sugary Beverages:
Sugary drinks like sodas and fruit juices are high in fructose, which can contribute to the buildup of fat in the liver.
Soda: Loaded with added sugars, soda can contribute to weight gain and liver stress.
Fruit Juices: Even natural fruit juices contain high amounts of fructose, which should be limited.
2. High-Fat Foods:
Foods rich in unhealthy fats can worsen fatty liver. Saturated and trans fats can lead to inflammation and further liver damage.
Fried Foods: Deep-fried items are often high in trans fats and harmful additives.
Processed Meats: Sausages, bacon, and processed meats are high in saturated fats.
3. Refined Carbohydrates:
Refined carbohydrates, found in white bread, pasta, and sugary snacks, can lead to rapid spikes in blood sugar and contribute to liver fat accumulation.
White Bread: Lacks nutrients and can cause blood sugar imbalances.
Pastries and Cakes: High sugar content can stress the liver and promote fat buildup.
4. Excessive Salt:
A high-sodium diet can contribute to fluid retention and worsen liver health.
Canned Soups: Often high in sodium, canned soups can lead to bloating and water retention.
Processed Snacks: Salted chips and snacks can contribute to sodium overload.
5. Alcohol:
Alcohol is a major contributor to fatty liver and can exacerbate inflammation and liver damage.
Beer and Spirits: Alcoholic beverages can strain the liver and worsen fatty liver.
Wine: Even moderate alcohol consumption should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
6. Added Sugars:
Foods with added sugars can contribute to insulin resistance, inflammation, and liver fat accumulation.
Candy: High in added sugars and lacking nutritional value.
Sweetened Yogurt: Opt for plain yogurt and add your own fresh fruits.
7. High-Caffeine Beverages:
While moderate coffee consumption is generally safe, excessive caffeine intake can stress the liver and interfere with its function.
Energy Drinks: High caffeine content can overburden the liver.
Excessive Coffee: Limit coffee if you notice adverse effects on digestion or sleep.
Conclusion
Managing fatty liver requires a proactive approach to your diet. By avoiding sugary beverages, high-fat foods, refined carbohydrates, excessive salt, alcohol, added sugars, and high-caffeine beverages, you can help support your liver’s health and reduce the risk of complications. Instead, focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
