Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, Aug 22: Fatty liver occurs when excess fat builds up in the liver cells. While it is normal for the liver to contain a small amount of fat, having more than 5-10% of the liver’s weight in fat is considered abnormal and can lead to serious complications.

Though alcohol consumption is a well-known cause, fatty liver can also develop in those who drink little to no alcohol. Obesity, poor diet, sedentary lifestyle, insulin resistance, rapid weight loss, and certain medications are among the major risk factors. If left uncontrolled, the condition may progress to fibrosis, cirrhosis, liver failure, or even liver cancer.

How to reverse the damage

Experts say fatty liver can be reversed, particularly in its early stages, through timely lifestyle changes. Some measures include:

• Healthy diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and omega-3 rich foods like fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts, while cutting down on sugars, refined carbs, and saturated fats.
• Regular exercise: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week, along with strength training twice weekly.
• Maintain healthy weight: Adopt gradual and sustainable weight loss methods instead of crash diets.
• Avoid alcohol: Essential for preventing further damage.
• Stay hydrated: Adequate water intake supports liver function.
• Medical monitoring: Regular check-ups and blood tests help track liver health.
• Manage other conditions: Control diabetes, cholesterol, and hypertension to reduce risks.

With consistent lifestyle changes and proper medical guidance, fatty liver can often be reversed, lowering the chances of severe liver-related complications.