Understanding NAFLD Treatment Options: Crucial Information You Need
In the realm of health conditions, Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) has gained significant attention due to its growing prevalence and potential complications. This article aims to provide insights on the dietary and lifestyle changes that can help manage and, in some cases, reverse this condition.
NAFLD is a condition characterised by the accumulation of excess fat in the liver, unrelated to alcohol consumption [1]. In many instances, NAFLD occurs without symptoms or the need for medical treatment [2]. However, it's essential to note that not all cases require immediate intervention, but maintaining a healthy lifestyle can prevent complications in the future.
The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends a combination of healthy eating and regular physical activity for effective weight loss [3]. A key aspect of dietary management involves adopting a Mediterranean-style diet rich in plant-based foods, healthy fats, lean proteins, and complex carbohydrates [4]. This diet emphasises reducing saturated fat and red meat intake, while favouring legumes, nuts, and oily fish, which are high in beneficial omega-3 fats [4]. Increasing fibre from vegetables, whole grains, oats, and seeds also supports liver health [4].
In terms of physical activity, the AHA advises at least 150 minutes per week of moderate aerobic exercise, coupled with strength training [3]. This not only improves insulin sensitivity but also reduces liver fat independently of symptoms [2][3].
Weight loss, when necessary, is another crucial factor. The AHA recommends losing at least 3-5% of body weight to reduce fat in the liver [5]. Gradual weight loss, such as 5-10% of body weight, is beneficial [5]. It's important to note that any weight loss efforts should be undertaken under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
It's also worth mentioning that NAFLD can either be nonalcoholic fatty liver (NAFL) or nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), the latter of which develops with inflammation and liver damage [1]. People with NASH may experience symptoms such as tiredness, weakness, weight loss, itching, web-like blood vessels under the skin, and yellowing of the skin or eyes [1].
The rising rates of obesity in the United States are mirrored by the incidence of NAFLD [6]. Reducing the risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes could lower the risk of NAFLD [6]. Therefore, people who are overweight, obese, or have type 2 diabetes may benefit from seeing a doctor about their risk of NAFLD.
While there are currently no approved medications for treating NAFLD [1], scientists are studying new ways of treating NAFLD, such as vitamin supplements or repurposed diabetes medications [7]. However, it's important to note that some herbal remedies can worsen liver damage, so it's always advisable to consult with a doctor before trying new approaches.
In conclusion, adopting a Mediterranean-style diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight can help manage and, in some cases, reverse NAFLD. By making these changes, individuals can effectively stabilise or reverse the condition even in asymptomatic cases. It's crucial to remember that everyone's health journey is unique, and it's always best to consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to one's diet or exercise routine.
References:
[1] American Liver Foundation. (2021). Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) and Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH). Retrieved from https://www.liverfoundation.org/liverdisease/nafld/
[2] American Heart Association. (2021). Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD). Retrieved from https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/nonalcoholic-fatty-liver-disease-nafld
[3] American Heart Association. (2021). Healthy Weight Loss. Retrieved from https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/nutrition-basics/healthy-weight-loss
[4] American Heart Association. (2021). Mediterranean Diet. Retrieved from https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/nutrition-basics/mediterranean-diet
[5] American Heart Association. (2021). Weight Loss. Retrieved from https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/weight-management/weight-loss
[6] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) and Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH). Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/liverdisease/nafld.htm
[7] National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2021). Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) and Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH). Retrieved from https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/liver-disease/nafld-nash
- The chronic condition, Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD), is a medical-condition of concern due to its increasing prevalence and potential links to chronic-diseases like type-2-diabetes and chronic-kidney-disease.
- Health-and-wellness experts recommend a combination of a Mediterranean-style diet and fitness-and-exercise to manage NAFLD, which includes adopting a diet rich in plant-based foods, healthy fats, lean proteins, and complex carbohydrates, according to the American Heart Association (AHA).
- The AHA also suggests at least 150 minutes per week of moderate aerobic exercise, coupled with strength training, for improved insulin sensitivity and reduced liver fat.
- Mental-health is equally important, as maintaining motivation for lifestyle changes can be challenging, and support from therapies-and-treatments, and a healthcare professional might be necessary.
- While no approved medications are currently available for treating NAFLD, scientists are exploring new therapies like vitamin supplements and repurposed diabetes medications, as mentioned in the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) research.
- It's crucial to remember that supplements, herbal remedies, or other unconventional approaches should only be considered with consulting a doctor to avoid potential liver damage.
