Fatty Liver Disease: Uncovering Myths and Facts for Better Health
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Fatty Liver Disease is a condition commonly known as fatty liver disease, and it is mostly prevalent in people all over the world. However, there is a lot of confusion about this disease, mostly because a lot of wrong information is spread about it. 


Finally, to set the record straight, let us understand the facts about it and how you can take care of fatty liver disease. Moving further, we will understand some myths about fatty liver and how one can manage it, including some Ayurvedic remedies that can be beneficial.

What is fatty liver disease, and how is it diagnosed?

Fatty liver disease develops when fat starts to build up in the liver, which hinders its ability to work as it should. It is divided into two main types: alcoholic and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), and alcoholic and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). 


Alcoholic fatty liver disease results from the consumption of alcohol, while NASH results from conditions such as a poorly balanced diet, obesity, and metabolic syndrome.


Fat can accumulate under the skin to cause obesity or even inside some organs, and one such organ in which fat can accumulate in the liver. Normally some amount of fat is present in the liver always, but when the quantity of fat contributes to increasing the weight of the liver by 5 to 10%, then the disease is called fatty liver disease. 


Excessive consumption of alcohol is one of the major causes. Along with the accumulation of fat, there is also inflammation of hepatic (liver) cells, and this is known as steatohepatitis. Fatty liver disease can occur even in those who do not consume alcohol, and in such cases, it is termed non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. 


Common symptoms of fatty liver disease are tiredness, weight loss, lethargy, loss of appetite, fatigue, and even nausea. Other symptoms can be associated with pain in the abdomen, enlargement of the liver that is usually noted at the time of palpitation, and even darkness around the neck, underarms, and in the groin region. 


Fatty liver can be diagnosed with the help of a blood test that includes a liver function test, an ultrasound scan of the abdomen, and also a biopsy of the hepatic cells. 

The Growing Prevalence of Fatty Liver Disease:

This was observed primarily in NAFLD, where the prevalence has been on the rise in the recent past. These include inadequate physical activities, consumption of foods heralding from fast-food joints, as well as poor diets. Some people have no idea they have the condition because it may not exhibit any signs in its early years.

The Symptoms of Fatty Liver Disease:

Fatty liver disease is typically referred to as a “silent” disease since asymptomatic progression characterizes it. However, as the condition worsens, symptoms may include:

  • Fatigue
  • Abdominal discomfort
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)

Diagnosing Fatty Liver Disease:

Like most chronic liver diseases, fatty liver disease can be identified through compatible blood tests, standard imaging studies, including ultrasounds or MRIs, and, in some cases, a liver biopsy. Your doctor will also consider your medical history and lifestyle to assess whether you can be at risk.

Risk Factors of Fatty Liver Disease:

Several factors increase your risk of developing fatty liver disease, including:

  • Obesity
  • Type 2 diabetes
  • High cholesterol
  • Sedentary lifestyle
  • Poor dietary habits
  • Genetics

How to Manage and Reverse Fatty Liver Disease:

1. Healthy Diet:

Dietary alteration is one of the best approaches to the control of FLD. The best meals that should be taken include vegetables, healthy fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Low-GI diets are very important, and this includes cutting down on sugar and processed foods.

2. Regular Exercise:

It is also essential for the prevention of liver diseases because exercise decreases the levels of liver fat content, enhances the performance of the liver, and increases metabolic rate. Both cardiovascular and weight-bearing activities must be incorporated into a program for the best effect.

3. Weight Loss:

If you are overweight or obese, losing as little as 5%-10% of your body weight to reverse fatty liver disease is possible. The best approach towards weight loss should be done slowly and professionally to avoid straining the liver.

4. Ayurvedic Solutions:

The remedy to fatty liver disease according to Ayurvedic medicine is more embracing in the sense that it seeks to restore the balance of the body system. Some Ayurvedic remedies available that support liver health include:

  • Punarnava Tablets: Punarnava Tablets are effective in reducing inflammatory reactions within the liver and improving liver functions, according to Punarnava’s traditional healing purposes as a detoxifier.
  • Triphala Tablets: Composed of three fruits, Triphala Tablet’s action helps fix the digestive system and purify the liver from toxins.
  • Amalaki Tablets: Amalaki Tablets offer liver protection and are good at fighting inflammation.

Incorporating these Ayurvedic herbs into your daily routine can be an effective way to support liver health and manage fatty liver disease.

5. Limiting alcohol consumption:

With alcoholic fatty liver disease, abstaining from alcohol is crucial and can help to considerably decrease the problem. A little as occasional drinking of alcoholic beverages can lead to poorer liver function.

Ayurvedic lifestyle changes for liver health:

When it comes to balance, Ayurveda offers rather an extensive focus on the diet, herbs, and lifestyle. Here are some Ayurvedic tips to promote liver health:

  • Immerse yourself in warm water with lemon first thing in the morning to reduce the amount of toxins in your system.
  • You should replace foods that have inflammation-causing effects with others that have anti-inflammatory effects, such as turmeric and ginger.
  • Avoid stress – Practice pranayama (breathing exercises) it will help to reduce stress, as it's a cause of inflammation of the liver.

Common Myths About Fatty Liver Disease:

Myth 1: Only Heavy Drinkers Get Fatty Liver Disease

This is a common misunderstanding. Although alcohol consumption may cause fatty liver disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease occurs in individuals who are very little active drinkers. From the above explanation of non-alcoholic fatty liver diseases, it is observed that conditions such as obesity and diabetes, cholesterol, among others, can cause NAFLD.

Myth 2: Fatty Liver Disease is Rare

Quite the opposite! Steatohepatitis is more prevalent than one would expect, especially NAFLD, with estimates of occurrence being 24%. It is finding its way into being a major health issue globally due to the vice that is lifestyle.

Myth 3: Fatty Liver Disease Isn’t Dangerous

Some members of the public think that fat in the liver is asymptomatic, but non-treated fatty liver disease can cause inflammation and fibrosis and even result in liver failure at the final stage.

When to Seek Medical Help:

If you’ve been diagnosed with FLD or if you are a candidate for developing one, you need to get your liver checked now and then. Consult a healthcare provider if you experience:

  • Persistent fatigue
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Signs of jaundice

Final thoughts:

Fatty liver disease is a prevalent form of liver disease that is still not well appreciated by many people. Not properly treated, it can be very dangerous, but by changing their lifestyles, adopting a healthier lifestyle, and supplementing this with Ayurvedic remedies, one can manage the disease or even cure it. 


Pro Tip: A healthy diet, daily exercise, and the ability to be mindful of what you are doing can go a long way toward helping improve the health of the liver as well as the health of the individual.
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