Let?s talk fatty liver

The liver is responsible for breaking down carbohydrates, making glucose, and detoxing the body. It also helps produce bile, which assists in the breakdown of proteins.

People who are obese or lead sedentary lifestyles are more prone to the fatty liver also non as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) which can interfere with how the liver functions. Liver dysfunction can lead to liver disease, metabolic disorder, and type 2 diabetes.

NAFLD is increasingly common around the world, especially in Western nations. In the United States, it is the most common form of chronic liver disease

Unfortunately, the fatty liver disease affects nearly one-third of American adults.

Some individuals with non-alcoholic fatty liver can develop nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), an aggressive form of fatty liver disease. With this condition, we see liver inflammation which may progress to advanced to cirrhosis and liver failure. This damage is similar to the damage caused by heavy alcohol use.

What can we do to prevent fatty liver disease?

You may be able to prevent nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis fatty liver disease (NASH) by eating a healthy diet and maintaining a healthy weight.

Let?s look at some foods that might help

Caffeine appears to lower the risk of fatty liver.

Green tea has been shown to help reduce fatty liver.

Fatty fish such as salmon, sardines, and tuna are high in omega-3 fatty acids which can help improve liver fat levels as well as decrease inflammation.

Foods high in fiber such as beans and whole grains can help prevent fat absorption in the intestines. Fiber also helps us feel full which can help with weight management.

Oatmeal has both fiber and beta-glucans which appears to help reduce the amount of fat stored in the liver, at least in mice.

Berries such as raspberries and blackberries have fiber and anti-oxidants which can help reduce inflammation and the risk of liver disease.

Dietary Factors in the Pathogenesis and Care of Patients with Fatty Liver Disease

Giulio Marchesini MD Rebecca Marzocchi MD Anna S. Sasdelli MD Cristiana Andruccioli MD Silvia Di Domizio

Book Editor(s): Geoffrey C. Farrell MD, FRACP Arthur J. McCullough MD Christopher P. Day MA (Cantab), PhD, MD, FRCP, FMedSci