Fatty liver disease in children, also known as paediatric non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), is a condition characterised by the accumulation of excess fat in the liver. It is increasingly common and linked to the rising rates of childhood obesity and sedentary lifestyles. NAFLD can range from simple steatosis (fat accumulation without inflammation) to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which includes inflammation and can lead to liver damage.
Early detection is crucial, as untreated NAFLD can progress to more severe liver diseases such as cirrhosis. Management of Fatty liver disease in children focuses on lifestyle changes, including a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, along with regular exercise.
Here’s a detailed look at eight food items that can help in managing fatty liver disease as suggested by Delhi-based paediatrician and consultant at Apollo Healthcare, Rohit Kumar.
Oats
Benefits: High in soluble fibre, oats can help reduce cholesterol and improve insulin sensitivity, both of which are important for liver health.
How to include: Serve oatmeal for breakfast or use oats in smoothies, baking, or as a topping for yogurt.
Fruits
Benefits: Fruits like berries (blueberries, strawberries), oranges, and kiwis are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, which help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the liver.
How to include: Offer fresh fruit as snacks, add them to breakfast cereals, or blend into smoothies.
Vegetables
Benefits: Leafy greens (spinach, kale) and cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower) contain fibre and essential nutrients that support liver detoxification and reduce fat accumulation.
How to include: Serve as part of salads, side dishes, or incorporate into soups and stews.
Fish
Benefits: Fatty fishlike salmon, sardines, and mackerel are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce liver fat and inflammation.
How to include: Aim for 2-3 servings per week, prepared by baking, grilling, or steaming.
Nuts Benefits: Nuts such as walnuts and almonds provide healthy fats, fibre, and antioxidants, which support liver health by reducing fat accumulation and oxidative stress.
How to include: Serve as snacks, add to salads or oatmeal, or use nut butters on whole-grain toast.
Avocados Benefits: Avocados are high in monounsaturated fats and fibre, which help reduce liver fat and improve liver function.
How to include: Add to salads, make guacamole, or use as a spread on sandwiches.
Olive oil
Benefits: Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, which can help reduce liver fat and inflammation.
How to include: Use as a dressing for salads, drizzled over vegetables, or in cooking.
Legumes Benefits: Beans, lentils, and chickpeas are high in fibre and protein, which help manage weight and reduce fat accumulation in the liver.
How to include: Incorporate into soups, stews, salads, or as a meat substitute in various dishes.
General tips
Balanced diet: Ensure a varied diet that includes plenty of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins.
Limit sugary and processed foods: Reduce the intake of sugary beverages, snacks, and fast food, which can contribute to liver fat accumulation.
Physical activity: Encourage regular physical activity, which is crucial for overall health and managing weight.
Hydration: Ensure adequate water intake to help the liver flush out toxins.
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