How to Treat Fatty Liver Disease Naturally at Home

The liver, the largest organ in the human body, plays a crucial role in metabolizing meals and eliminating toxins. When excess fat accumulates in liver cells, it leads to fatty liver disease. Though a small amount of fat in the liver is normal, over 10% of liver weight being fat indicates a fatty liver. This condition can lead to liver damage despite often showing no symptoms.

Fatty liver disease can be categorized into:

• Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: Unrelated to high alcohol consumption, its exact cause is unknown, but risk factors include diabetes and obesity.
• Alcoholic fatty liver disease: Caused by excessive alcohol consumption.

Fatty liver occurs when the liver fails to metabolize body fats adequately, leading to fat buildup. It can also result from excessive alcohol intake, rapid weight loss, and medications such as diltiazem, amiodarone, tamoxifen, or steroids. Risk factors include obesity, insulin resistance, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes.

Fatty liver often has no symptoms and is usually discovered during tests for other conditions. As it progresses, symptoms like weakness, fatigue, confusion, weight loss, and abdominal pain may appear.

Lose Extra Weight

Reducing 3-5% of body weight can decrease liver fat buildup, while a 7-10% reduction can alleviate other symptoms like inflammation and scarring. A gradual weight loss of 0.5 to 1 kg per week is recommended.

Eat a Healthy Diet

A Mediterranean diet can help reduce liver fat. This diet includes:

• Fruits and Vegetables (berries, apples, oranges, leafy greens, broccoli)
• Healthy Fats (nuts, seeds, avocados)
• Fish and Lean Meats
• Whole Grains (whole-wheat bread, brown rice)
• Legumes (beans, lentils)

Exercise Regularly

Daily exercise for at least 30 minutes can help prevent obesity and maintain healthy liver function.

Lemon Water

Drinking water with squeezed lemon, rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, can aid liver detoxification.

Avoid Added Sugar

High sugar intake, especially fructose, can exacerbate fatty liver disease. Avoid sugary soft drinks and processed foods.

Avoid Known Liver Irritants

Limit alcohol, over-the-counter medications, and certain supplements that can stress the liver.

Omega-3 Supplements

Omega-3 fatty acids, found in oily fish, nuts, and seeds, can lower liver fat. Consult a doctor for the appropriate dosage.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Adding apple cider vinegar to water can promote weight loss and reduce liver fat buildup.

Drink Coffee

Coffee, particularly black coffee, can protect against metabolic syndrome linked to fatty liver disease.

Avoid Alcohol

Eliminating alcohol is crucial, especially in alcoholic fatty liver disease. Consider treatment or support programs if necessary.

Final Word

The best approach to managing fatty liver disease involves lifestyle and dietary changes. Reducing weight, exercising, limiting sugar intake, and drinking coffee can alleviate symptoms. It's essential to manage liver health, as excessive liver fat increases the risk of heart disease.