The liver has many bodily functions, most significantly regulating the amounts of sugar, protein, and fat that enter the bloodstream. The liver is also a detoxification site where the conversion of toxic substances to nontoxic metabolites occurs.
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is an umbrella term for a range of liver conditions affecting people who drink little to no alcohol. As the name implies, the main characteristic of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is too much fat stored in liver cells. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is increasingly common around the world, especially in Western nations. In the United States, it is the most common form of chronic liver disease, affecting an estimated 80 to 100 million people.
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease tends to develop in people who are overweight or obese or have diabetes, high cholesterol or high triglycerides. Rapid weight loss and poor eating habits also may lead to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
Symptoms and Signs:
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease usually causes no signs and symptoms. When it does, they may include:
Enlarged liver
Fatigue
Pain in the upper right abdomen
Possible signs and symptoms of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis and cirrhosis (advanced scarring) include:
Abdominal swelling
Enlarged blood vessels just beneath the skin's surface
Enlarged breasts in men
Enlarged spleen
Red palms
Yellowing of the skin and eyes
If you have concerns speak to the Dr. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is initially suspected if blood tests show high levels of liver enzymes. However, other liver diseases are first ruled out through additional tests. Often, an ultrasound is used to confirm. There are no medical treatments yet for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly may help prevent liver damage from starting or reverse it in the early stages.
Talk to your doctor about ways to improve your liver health
Lose weight, if you are overweight or obese
Lower your cholesterol and triglycerides
Control your diabetes
Avoid alcohol
There are some things that you can do to be preventative. Always choose a healthier diet. Maintain a healthy weight. Exercise needs to be build into you lifestyle as well. Listed below are some liver cleansing foods. If you trend towards these foods you will have a jump start on protecting and maintaining a healthier liver.
Avocados
Whole Grains
Green Tea
Olive Oil
Grapefruit
Beets and Carrots
Cruciferous veggies
Lemons and limes
Leafy green veggies
Cabbage
Garlic
Tumeric (be careful with this one. It's best to ask so you are getting one that's right for you!)
Walnuts
Apples
If you have any questions or concerns, please let us know at your visit!