NAFLD Prevalence
Despite the fact that 90% of liver disorders are avoidable with healthy lifestyle modifications, the organ usually does not receive the medical care it deserves. More than one-third (38%) of Indians suffer from alcoholic/non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, according to a recent AIIMS study that analyzed previously published research on the condition in India. According to a recent study, the condition not only affects adults but also approximately 35% of youngsters as well. Since it doesn’t show symptoms in the early stages, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) often goes unnoticed.
NAFLD is emerging as an important cause of liver disease in India. Doctors also claim that the country is witnessing a silent epidemic. According to the recent guidelines published in the Hepatology International journal, diet and exercise are the main aspects in the treatment of NAFLD, now known as metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD).
“The major cause of ‘fatty liver’ is the recent westernization of our diets, which involves increased intake of fast food products, lack of healthy fruits and vegetables on the plate, and an unhealthy and sedentary lifestyle,” said Dr Kanchan, Head of Department, Bharat Homeopathy.
NAFLD And Associated Comorbidities
Excess fat buildup in the liver is an early sign of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a chronic liver condition. Patients with NAFLD tend to have associated health conditions such as obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and dyslipidemia, and it is closely associated with metabolic syndrome. NAFLD has been linked to a number of non-liver comorbidities, such as sleep apnea, chronic renal disease, and cardiovascular disease, in addition to liver-related issues. Patients struggling with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease are more likely than the general population to develop cardiovascular disease, which is the leading cause of death in the population.
Patients with NAFLD are also more likely to develop chronic renal disease, and the severity of NAFLD is linked to an increased risk of chronic kidney disease. Patients with NAFLD are also more likely to have sleep apnea, a condition marked by interruptions in breathing while they sleep, and this condition is linked to the severity of NAFLD. Non-liver comorbidities have significant effects on how NAFLD is managed when they develop in individuals.
Understanding NAFLD
The liver plays a significant role in metabolism and detoxification. However, diets rich in trans fats and simple carbohydrates—common in fast foods, sugary beverages, packaged snacks, and fried items—can overwhelm the organ’s metabolic capacity. Over time, this results in the accumulation of excess fat within the liver cells, leading to hepatic steatosis, the hallmark of NAFLD.
If unchecked, fatty liver can progress to Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH), an inflammatory condition that increases the risk of fibrosis, cirrhosis, and even hepatocellular carcinoma (cancer). Alarmingly, this entire progression can occur silently, without obvious symptoms, making early dietary intervention crucial.
Common Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Symptoms
- Fatigue: A persistent feeling of exhaustion that stays even after getting enough sleep.
- Pain or discomfort in the abdomen usually occurs in the upper right region, which houses the organ.
- Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes caused by the accumulation of bilirubin in the blood.
- Swelling: Fluid accumulation leads to either edema, swelling in the legs and ankles, or ascites, swelling in the abdomen.
- Itchy Skin: Prolonged itching, particularly if non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a more severe variant of NAFLD, develops.
5 Natural Remedies For NAFLD
The primary objectives of non-alcoholic fatty liver treatment are to improve the organ’s function and lessen fat accumulation. The strategy includes food adjustments, exercise, lifestyle modifications, and, if required, medical assistance.
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Managing Weight
One of the best methods to reduce liver fat is to lose extra weight. The functioning of the organ can be considerably improved by losing 5–10% of body weight. Rapid weight reduction can sometimes worsen issues; thus, it is advised to lose weight gradually while maintaining a balanced and healthy diet and engaging in routine exercise.
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Nutritious Diet
A balanced diet promotes liver health and minimizes fat accumulation. Essential dietary guidelines consist of:
- Reducing refined carbs and sugar: Consuming excessive amounts of sugar, such as from processed foods and sugary drinks, causes the liver to accumulate fat.
- Consuming foods high in fiber: Legumes, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are all helpful in better digestion and controlling the process of fat absorption.
- Selecting good fats: Avocados, olive oil, nuts, and seeds contain healthy fats that promote the organ’s function.
- Steer clear of saturated and trans fats: These fats, which are present in red meat, processed snacks, and fried foods, could increase the buildup of liver fat.
- Optimum hydration: Water consumption helps the liver efficiently process and eliminate toxins.
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Regular Physical Activity
Engaging in physical activity enhances liver function and burns extra fat. It can be helpful to combine strength training, like lifting weights, with cardiovascular activities, such as brisk walking, swimming, or cycling. For better liver health, try to get in at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week.
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Handling Medical Conditions
Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver can be caused by underlying diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and excessive cholesterol. Further liver damage can be avoided by managing these disorders with recommended drugs and lifestyle modifications.
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Limiting Alcohol and Avoiding Harmful Substances
Excessive alcohol consumption increases the risk of liver injury and contributes to the buildup of fat. Alcohol can be reduced or avoided entirely to help the liver heal.
Can Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Be Reversed Through Homeopathy?
Homeopathy, an alternative system of medicine developed in Germany more than 2 centuries ago, is based on two foundational principles: “like cures like”, and “the lower the dose of treatment medication, the greater its effectiveness (potentization). In India, homeopathy is recognized as a distinct medical system through the Homeopathy Central Council Act of 1973. Homeopathic remedies are promoted for viral diseases, allergic conditions, skin disorders, behavioral problems, and several chronic illnesses, and have proven to be extremely effective in treating liver-related disorders.
Maintaining liver health involves more than just eating correctly and exercising; when necessary, you should seek the appropriate medical advice. The best course of action is to speak with a hepatologist if there are concerns regarding the organ’s health. Advanced and comprehensive diagnostics, along with medical assistance, are available at Bharat Homeopathy Hospital to help properly manage and treat the disease. The time to take action is now if liver health is an issue. Take charge of your health by scheduling a consultation right now.
