Fatty Liver Disease — a condition induced by excessive fat accumulation in the liver — is among our era’s fastest-growing ailments. Typically associated with life-style factors such as dietetics, lack of exercise, and obesity, it can cause harm quietly to the liver in the long term. Unchecked, it can lead to severe disease such as inflammation of the liver (steatohepatitis), fibrosis, cirrhosis, or even liver cancer.
On this Fatty Liver Day, let’s be aware and take action. The best part: fatty liver is reversible particularly if you catch it early. By adopting some sane lifestyle modifications, you can save your liver and overall health.
What is fatty liver?
Fatty liver is when the liver stores over 5–10% body weight as fat. There are two broad types:
- Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD): Most common and linked to lifestyle factors.
- Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (AFLD): Caused by excessive alcohol intake.
NAFLD is now common even in non-obese individuals due to factors like stress, poor sleep, processed foods, and insulin resistance.
Who is at risk?
You’re more likely to develop fatty liver if you:
- Are overweight or obese
- Have type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance
- Have high cholesterol or triglycerides
- Consume alcohol frequently
- Lead a sedentary lifestyle
- Have unhealthy eating habits
How to prevent or reverse fatty liver?
1. Maintain a liver-supportive diet
- Consume lots of fruits and vegetables, particularly leafy greens.
- Use whole grains instead of refined carbs such as brown rice, oats, and millets.
- Consume lean proteins: fish, chicken, dal, tofu, and eggs.
- Consume good fats: nuts, seeds, olive oil, and avocados in moderation.
- Avoid sugar beverages, processed foods, fried foods, and full-fat milk products
2. Exercise regularly
- Physical activity reduces fat loss and liver. Target:
- Healthy brisk walking for 30–45 minutes at least 5 times a week
- Add strength training 2–3 times a week
- Even 5–10% weight loss enhances the liver’s functioning.
3. Get Lots of fluid and rest
- Get at least 2–3 liters of fluid intake daily
- Sleep 7–8 hours every night – poor sleep is the reason for fat deposition in the body
4. Drink a lot of fluids and avoid alcohol and smoking
Even moderate drinking can worsen fatty liver. Quit smoking and limit alcohol intake to maintain liver function.
5. Routine health checkups
Most cases of fatty liver are symptomless in the initial stages. Routine checkups identify it early and avoid complications.
Symptoms You Should Not Ignore
Although usually symptomless, some might experience:
- Fatigue
- Upper right abdominal pain
- Unintended weight gain
- Dark urine or mild jaundice (advanced stages)
Seek a doctor at once if you experience any of these.
What can Mythri Hospital do?
Our dietitians and gastroenterologists at Mythri Hospital know that a healthy liver translates to your body being well. Our experts identify fatty liver in the early stages and offer personalised plans that include:
- Imaging and advanced liver function tests
- Counselling on lifestyle and nutrition
- Regular monitoring and medical treatment
- Diabetes, obesity, and related disorders support
- Non-invasive liver fibrosis testing
Preventive consultation or the already present liver disease, Mythri Hospital provides empathetic, professional care with state-of-the-art medical technology — guiding you toward a healthy, liver-friendly lifestyle.
Act now
Fatty liver may be stealthy, but your response need not be. This Fatty Liver Day, take the first step – eat well, exercise, and have a checkup on your liver.
Your liver serves you. Let’s serve it back.