Fatty Liver Disease: Fat Accumulation in the Liver

NAFLD has become increasingly common worldwide. It is estimated to affect approximately 25% of the global population, although reported prevalence varies between countries. The condition can affect both women and men.

Although fatty liver disease is now detected more frequently, many people remain undiagnosed. Even among those who have already received a diagnosis, some may not receive sufficiently comprehensive follow-up care.

Why Is Fatty Liver Disease Important?

Fatty liver disease may increase the risk of several serious health problems.

๐ Cardiovascular disease: It may increase the risk of coronary artery disease, stroke, and death from cardiovascular complications. This is considered one of the most important risks associated with fatty liver disease.

๐ Cancers outside the liver: The condition may be associated with an increased risk of developing and dying from certain non-liver cancers.

๐ Liver complications: Fat accumulation may progress to liver inflammation, liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer.

Early detection and appropriate management can help reduce the risk of these complications and related mortality.

Causes and Risk Factors

Factors that may contribute to fatty liver disease include:

๐ Consuming more calories than the body requires, particularly from high-fat foods, refined carbohydrates, and sugar

๐ Obesity

๐ Type 2 diabetes mellitus

๐ Metabolic syndrome

๐ Insulin resistance

๐ Polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS

๐ Genetic factors, including variants in genes such as PNPLA3 and TM6SF2

How Is Fatty Liver Disease Diagnosed?

Diagnosis usually involves a combination of medical assessment, imaging, and laboratory tests.

Medical History and Physical Examination

A doctor will review the patient’s symptoms, lifestyle, medical history, medications, underlying conditions, and risk factors before conducting a physical examination.

Imaging Tests

Tests that may be used to detect fat accumulation or liver fibrosis include:

๐ Upper-abdominal ultrasound

๐ Computed tomography, or CT scan

๐ Magnetic resonance imaging, or MRI

๐ FibroScan to assess liver stiffness and possible fibrosis

Laboratory Tests

Blood and other tests may be performed to identify associated conditions and evaluate factors contributing to fatty liver disease.

These may include:

๐ Fasting blood sugar

๐ Lipid profile

๐ Liver-function tests

๐ Kidney-function tests

๐ Complete blood count

๐ Urinalysis

๐ Chest X-ray

๐ Electrocardiogram

๐ Other examinations considered necessary by the doctor

Treatment and Management

Management generally involves two main approaches:

๐ Lifestyle modification

๐ Medication when medically indicated

Lifestyle Modification

Weight Reduction

For people who are overweight or obese, the goal may be to reduce body weight by approximately 7-10% of the initial weight.

Possible approaches include:

๐ Reducing daily calorie intake below the amount the body uses

๐ An approximate daily intake of 1,200-1,500 kilocalories for women, when medically appropriate

๐ An approximate daily intake of 1,500-1,800 kilocalories for men, when medically appropriate

๐ Increasing walking and daily physical activity

๐ Aiming for approximately 10,000 steps per day when suitable for individual health

๐ Exercising for at least 150 minutes per week

๐ Reducing high-calorie drinks, including soft drinks, sweetened fruit juices, and alcoholic beverages

Calorie targets should be adjusted according to age, body size, activity level, health condition, and professional medical or nutritional advice.

Improving Food Choices

The proportion of fatty foods, refined carbohydrates, and sugar should be reduced, especially foods high in saturated fat, trans fat, and fructose-containing sweeteners.

Foods and drinks that may need to be limited include:

๐ Fatty pork and fatty cuts of meat

๐ Lard

๐ Coconut oil and palm oil

๐ Non-dairy creamer

๐ Cheese and high-fat dairy products

๐ Egg yolks and organ meats in excessive amounts

๐ Sugary drinks

๐ Soft drinks

๐ Foods high in refined starch and added sugar

A balanced diet should focus on appropriate portions of vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, fruit, and healthy fats.

Regular Exercise

Exercise should be performed regularly and consistently.

A general goal may include:

๐ Exercising at least three to four days per week

๐ Approximately 45-60 minutes per session

The exercise programme should be selected according to the individual’s physical condition and medical limitations.

Coffee Consumption

Drinking no more than approximately two cups of coffee per day without added sugar, milk, or non-dairy creamer may be associated with a reduced risk of liver fibrosis in some people.

Coffee contains antioxidants, but it should not replace medical treatment or other lifestyle changes.

Adequate Sleep

Getting sufficient and good-quality sleep supports metabolic health. Adults should aim for an appropriate amount of sleep each night according to their individual needs, commonly around seven to nine hours.

Medication

Lifestyle modification is the main approach for many people with fatty liver disease, and not everyone requires medication.

However, medication may be considered when:

๐ Fatty liver disease has progressed to a moderate or advanced stage

๐ There is evidence of liver inflammation or fibrosis

๐ The patient has diabetes, high cholesterol, obesity, or another associated condition

๐ Lifestyle changes alone have not sufficiently reduced the risks

A doctor will assess the severity of the disease, associated health conditions, and individual risks before recommending medication.

Fatty liver disease can often be improved through weight management, balanced nutrition, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and proper control of associated conditions. Medical follow-up remains important because the condition may progress even when there are no noticeable symptoms.

 

Reference :

Aek Udon International Hospital Fatty Liver Disease

ArokaGO Providers Aek Udon International Hospital