One cause of always feeling tired or having unexplained weight loss is fatty liver
Not to worry
This thread explains, in simple terms, what it is, how it happens, and simple tips to keep your liver healthy
What is Fatty Liver Disease?
It occurs when too much fat builds up in the liver.
Understand that the liver normally has some fat, only that, too much can lead to inflammation and damage
This may progress to more severe liver problems like liver fibrosis or cirrhosis.
There are types
- Alcoholic Fatty Liver Dz
- Non-alcoholic Fatty liver Dz
Alcoholic fatty liver disease
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It is caused by drinking large amounts of alcohol over time. Alcohol can overwhelm the liver’s ability to process alcohol, leading to fat buildup and liver damage.
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
This type is not related to alcohol use. It is commonly linked to:
- being overweight or obese
- having type 2 diabetes
- high cholesterol
- high blood pressure.
- or metabolic syndrome (a cluster of conditions that increase heart disease risk)
Common Symptoms
- Sadly, people don’t show symptoms, so the disease might be discovered during routine medical tests
- Feeling unusually tired or weak
- Pain or discomfort in the upper right side of the belly where the liver is located.
- Losing weight without trying, which might also indicate other health issues.
Who is at risk
- those with excess body fat, particularly around the belly, can increase liver fat.
- those with uncontrolled high blood sugar levels are closely linked to fatty liver disease.
- high levels of fat (cholesterol) in the blood can contribute to fat buildup in the liver.
- Diets high in sugary foods, refined grains, and unhealthy fats can promote fat accumulation in the liver.
- lack of exercise and a sedentary lifestyle (you don’t move around enough) contributes to weight gain and can lead to fatty liver disease.
- Family history of liver disease or other metabolic conditions can increase risk.
Prevention
- Losing weight through a combination of a balanced diet and regular exercise can reduce liver fat.
- Focus on consuming a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats (like those from nuts and olive oil)
- Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week, such as brisk walking, swimming, or cycling.
- Limit/stop alcohol intake
- Manage longterm disease conditions like diabetes
- conduct regular checkup as there may be no symptoms prior
Which Foods are good for the liver?
Leafy greens
Spinach, pumpkin, help reduce liver fat and support detoxification.
Berries
Blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries are rich in antioxidants that protect the liver
Beets
It is high in antioxidants and nutrients, beets support liver detoxification and reduce inflammation
Nuts
Like almonds, walnuts, and other nuts provide healthy fats and nutrients that support liver health.
Fatty Fish
Like mackerel, and sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids that reduce liver fat.
Avocado
It provides healthy fats and antioxidants that help protect the liver from damage
Garlic
Contains compounds that help activate liver enzymes responsible for flushing out toxins.
You may benefit by adding these to your diet, please don’t abuse them
By making these lifestyle changes and monitoring your health, you can help prevent fatty liver disease and support overall liver function.
By Pharm Greatman, @OGreat6
