Fatty Liver Disease

This condition is exactly what it sounds like- excess fat accumulates in the liver and causes damage. The condition can have many negative consequences on the body.

There are 2 main types of fatty liver disease: Alcoholic fatty liver disease (AFLD) and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The cause of NAFLD is not yet clear, but we do know some of the common risk factors. These include rare genetic diseases, metabolic syndrome, obesity, and more.

The condition has four stages of severity. First, simple fatty liver. Second, steatohepatitis, where the condition is exacerbated by inflammation. Third, fibrosis, or scarring in the liver. Fourth, cirrhosis, which is excessive scarring which impacts the livers function.

Cirrhosis is considered irreversible. Symptoms include abdominal pain, fatigue, nausea, confusion, dark urine, lack of appetite, weakness, and more.

Another possible result of NAFLD is nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). This is a type of advanced fatty liver disease which can lead to liver failure.

If you have a form of fatty liver disease, it’s so important to talk to your doctor about ways to manage to condition. There are also some natural remedies which can drastically improve outcomes for this patient population.

Natural Remedies 

The natural remedies for fatty liver disease can be broken down into three areas – diet, exercise, and weight.

Diet

Focusing on whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, dairy, healthy fats, and whole grains can be extremely helpful for combatting this disease. Additionally-

• Avoid processed foods
• Avoid alcohol
• Focus on nutrient-rich foods
• Minimize saturated fats
• Add a Vitamin E supplement
• Eat high fiber foods
• Stay hydrated
• Limit refined carbs
• Limit high sodium foods
• Avoid raw shellfish
• Avoid added sugar

Exercise

Exercise doesn’t need to be complicated. It’s all about staying active. Even the small things add up.

• Take the stairs
• Go hiking
• Walk your dog
• Play basketball
• Park in the back of the parking lot
• Try to be active for 3o minutes a day 5-6 days a week

Weight

Maintaining a healthy weight is vital. Of course, maintaining a healthy weight is easier to say than it is to do.

• Focus on eating a smaller portion
• Drink plenty of water
• Eat more low calorie foods

You can read more tips on how to combat fatty liver disease here.