Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a buildup of fat within your life. However, there is no organ damage in NAFLD, unlike other liver diseases. You can reverse the condition by taking steps before it becomes more severe.
Weight Loss
Research shows that losing weight may be the best way to reverse or control NAFLD. It is a worthy goal to lose 10% of your total body weight. However, even a 3% to 5% loss can help improve your liver health.
Discuss with your doctor the best way to lose weight safely. There are many options available:
- Diet
- Exercise
- Weight loss surgery
- Weight loss medication
Treat other health problems.
Many other health conditions can be linked to a fatty liver. These issues can be treated, and NAFLD can be reversed. These conditions could include:
- Diabetes
- High cholesterol
- High Triglycerides (fat found in the Blood)
- Sleep Apnea
- Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
- Hypothyroidism or underactive thyroid
- Hypopituitarism, also known as hypopituitarism or underactive pituitary gland
Change the way you eat.
While a shift in your diet can help you lose weight, there are many other benefits. They can improve your overall health and reduce the amount of fat stored in your liver.
Here are some adjustments that you can make
- More fruits & vegetables.
- Eat more fish.
- Consume more high-fiber food
- Avoid eating too many carbs.
- Limit sugar.
- Limit saturated and trans fats.
- Reduce salt intake
Enjoy your morning coffee. Although scientists believe it may reduce liver inflammation, they still need more research.
Reduce Stress on Your Liver
Alcohol may cause your liver to store fat. The liver can also be damaged by alcohol. If you have NAFLD, it is essential to avoid alcohol.
It doesn’t matter if you think you can quit altogether. If you are a woman, you should have one drink per day and no more than two if your gender is male.
Some over-the-counter medications can damage your liver. However to avoid overdosing, acetaminophen should be taken according to the directions. Make sure to read all labels on any medicines you take. Acetaminophen can be found in many cold medications and prescription painkillers.
Discuss with your doctor all medications and supplements that you are taking. People suffering from liver disease should avoid nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ( NSAIDs).
Take into account medications.
There are no approved drugs for NAFLD. However, there are some supplements and medications that you and your doctor might want to talk about.
To protect your liver against hepatitis B or viruses, you may need vaccinations. It would help if you also got a flu shot every year.
Although some studies have shown that vitamins improve the function of certain people’s livers, the science is still not precise. Talk to your doctor if you are interested in this supplement. It is not recommended for everyone.
Talk to your doctor about your condition. Research is underway to develop new drugs for NAFLD. One of these may be right at your home.