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When the liver is overloaded with fat, it can result in inflammation and in some cases, liver damage as well.
Fatty liver disease is a serious condition but can be prevented or managed by introducing lifestyle changes and medications.
When too much fat builds up in the liver, a condition called fatty liver disease is developed. The contributing factors for this condition are excess body weight, unhealthy eating habits, and certain heart health conditions. When the liver is overloaded with fat, it can result in inflammation and in some cases, liver damage as well. Due to modern lifestyles, eating habits, and metabolic disorders, fatty liver disease has grown in importance. It happens when too much fat builds up in the liver cells, and if it is not treated, it can lead to inflammation, scarring, and serious liver damage. Dr. Prasad Bhate, HOD & Consultant, Medical Gastroenterology, Manipal Hospital, Baner, Pune shares all you need to know:
- Eat a Healthy DietIt is important to take a balanced diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats to prevent fatty liver disease. It is also important to reduce alcohol intake, sugary foods and controlling portion sizes for fatty liver disease.
- Exercise RegularlyIt is important to exercise for at least 150 minutes per week as exercising can help one body fat and reduce the fat in the liver. This exercise can include walking, swimming, or cycling.
- Maintain a Healthy WeightMaintaining a healthy weight, especially for overweight or obese people, can help reduce liver fat. One can try working with a healthcare team to maintain a safe body weight that can aid in dealing with fatty liver disease.
- Manage DiabetesIf one is suffering from diabetes, it is recommended that blood sugar levels are kept under control with the help of healthcare providers. Maintained blood sugar levels can also help prevent fatty liver.
- Lower Cholesterol and Blood PressureCholesterol and blood pressure levels should be kept in check to prevent any further liver damage.
Medications for Fatty Liver Disease
While there are no approved medicines to treat fatty liver disease, there are some methods that are being studied to cure fatty liver disease. These include medications like
● Rezdiffra: a new pill that should be taken daily. It helps reduce liver fat, inflammation, and scarring as well.
● Orlistat (Xenical): a tablet that helps reduce the amount of fat in the liver and improve metabolism as well
● Pioglitazone and vitamin E also help in dealing with fatty liver disease. The former improves fibrosis and the latter acts as an antioxidant. However, fatty liver disease can be best dealt with by incorporating lifestyle changes.
Fatty liver disease is a serious condition but can be prevented or managed by introducing lifestyle changes and medications. For enhanced liver health, one should maintain a healthy (Lifestyle modification ), balanced diet, along with weight management (Weight Loss). It is also important to keep a check on cholesterol and sugar levels for a healthy liver. Also, Doctors must be consulted for advice and treatment options if someone is at risk.
