Fatty Liver

Fatty Liver – What You Need to Know

In today’s modern lifestyle, fatty liver is becoming an increasingly common condition—not just among people who consume alcohol. More and more individuals, including young people, are facing non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), often without symptoms until complications arise.

What Is Fatty Liver?

Steatosis occurs when fat accumulates in the liver cells, exceeding 5% of the organ’s total weight. There are two main types:

• Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) – the most common form among people who do not consume alcohol but have other risk factors.
• Alcoholic steatosis – related to excessive alcohol consumption.

This condition often goes unnoticed because it typically does not cause pain or clear symptoms in its early stages.

What Causes It?

Fatty liver is most commonly caused by a combination of the following factors:

• An unhealthy diet high in sugar, saturated, and trans fats
• Lack of physical activity
• Excess body weight or obesity
• Type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance
• Excessive alcohol consumption

What Are the Possible Consequences?

If not diagnosed and managed early, steatosis can progress into more serious conditions:

• Liver inflammation (steatohepatitis)
• Cirrhosis – irreversible liver tissue damage
• Increased risk of heart disease and metabolic syndrome

How to Protect Your Liver

Prevention and lifestyle changes play a key role. Here are some scientifically proven recommendations:

• Reduce intake of processed foods, sugars, and unhealthy fats
• Eat more fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Maintain a healthy body weight
• Stay physically active for at least 30 minutes a day
• Limit or avoid alcohol consumption

When Should You See a Doctor?

Even without symptoms, fatty liver can be diagnosed through lab tests and ultrasound. However, if you experience:

• Fatigue
• Pain or pressure in the upper right part of the abdomen
• Bloating
• Elevated liver enzyme levels

Then it’s important to consult with:

A gastroenterologist – for diagnosis, monitoring, and a treatment plan

A nutritionist – for a personalized dietary approach

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