NAFLD isn’t just about the liver storing excess fat. It’s a reflection of deeper metabolic imbalances, says Dr Jatin Yegurla, Consultant, Medical Gastroenterologist at Apollo Hospitals, Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad. “About 60–70 percent of people with NAFLD also have Type 2 diabetes, which shows how closely linked this condition is to insulin resistance and poor metabolic health,” he says.
This connection, the expert says, has led experts to adopt a broader term — MAFLD (Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease) — to better represent how the disease is intertwined with obesity, high blood pressure, and unhealthy diets. “Surprisingly, NAFLD doesn’t only affect people who appear overweight. Many lean people, including children, are now being diagnosed with fatty liver due to sedentary habits and poor eating,” Dr Yegurla warns.
Symptoms of fatty liver disease
Fatty liver disease rarely shows symptoms in the early stages. “The liver is a silent organ,” explains Dr Yegurla, adding, “Its ability to regenerate often masks the problem until significant damage has already occurred. By the time symptoms like fatigue, jaundice, or abdominal discomfort appear, the disease may have already progressed to cirrhosis or even liver cancer.”
Also read | Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in children: How reducing stress, obesity, and poor diet minimise risk
Additionally, NAFLD has now overtaken alcohol-related liver disease as the leading cause of liver transplants worldwide. “In India, liver disease has climbed into the top 10 causes of death, a grim statistic considering how preventable many of these cases are. Simple interventions like better glycemic control, regular exercise, and avoiding harmful medications can drastically reduce risk," he warns.
Here are the symptoms, risks, and ways, suggested by Dr Yegurla, to protect your liver from NAFLD:
- Don’t assume you’re safe because you’re slim: Even people with normal body weight can develop NAFLD, especially if they lead sedentary lives, eat poorly, or have a family history of metabolic conditions.
- Watch out for blood sugar and cholesterol: High blood sugar and triglycerides are major risk factors for fatty liver. Regular screenings can help detect early changes before the liver is affected.
- Prioritise routine liver screenings: Basic tests like liver function tests and ultrasounds, especially if you have diabetes or obesity, can catch fatty liver before it progresses.
- Rethink your diet and lifestyle: Cut back on sugar, fried foods, and processed carbs. Include more fibre, lean protein, and healthy fats. Aim for 45 minutes of moderate exercise most days.
- Don’t ignore fatigue or vague discomfort: Mild but persistent tiredness, bloating, or discomfort in the upper right abdomen could be early signs. It’s better to investigate than ignore.
- Alcohol isn’t the only enemy: NAFLD is often overlooked because people assume liver disease is only caused by alcohol. But today, lifestyle factors are the bigger culprits.
- Stay informed and seek medical help: Consult a gastroenterologist before taking any medications or supplements for liver support. Many natural remedies can do more harm than good.
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