An Overview of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

While it is common for low levels of fat to accumulate in the liver, an excess buildup can be detrimental to health and wellbeing. This condition, known as fatty liver disease, can be separated into alcoholic and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). As the name suggests, alcoholic fatty liver is caused by an excess consumption of alcohol that places a metabolic stress on the liver. A single specific cause of NAFLD has not yet been pinpointed, but several genetic and environmental factors have been correlated to higher risks. Those who are overweight, have diabetes, and experience high levels of blood triglycerides or cholesterol tend to have a greater chance of developing NAFLD. The extra fat carried in the liver can cause swelling and scarring in the liver, which left untreated could progress into liver cancer or failure.

Oftentimes there are no specific symptoms to suggest NAFLD in an individual, so doctors must rely on blood tests to monitor levels of liver enzymes in the blood. Since medical treatments for NAFLD have not yet been developed, treatment involves losing weight, exercising regularly and eating a healthy diet low in simple sugars and saturated fatty acids. It is recommended that those who have been diagnosed with NAFLD regularly see a doctor to monitor progression of the disease.

For more information about NAFLD, check out: https://liverfoundation.org/for-patients/about-the-liver/diseases-of-the-liver/non-alcoholic-fatty-liver-disease/#information-for-the-newly-diagnosed