Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease And Weight Loss
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The liver is located in the upper right abdomen, just below the diaphragm, and is among the body’s largest and most important organs. It performs many vital functions like nutrition processing, toxic substance filtration, and bile production, which is necessary for digestion. A healthy liver in a person indicates good blood sugar control, high energy levels, and a better metabolic rate.
However, if the liver is affected by conditions like non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), its ability to function properly becomes compromised. Over the past few years, NAFLD has become more and more widespread and is closely connected with body weight, where weight loss has almost become the primary factor in its management and reversal.
Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)
NAFLD is a progressive liver condition that occurs when excess fat accumulates in the liver cells. It is observed in people who have no drinking habits. It is mainly caused by metabolic problems such as being overweight, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes, unlike alcohol consumption, which can damage the liver. This is the most prevalent type of chronic liver disease, and it is believed that about 25% of the people around the world are affected.
Based on the severity, NAFLD is categorised into two different forms.
Fatty liver alone (steatosis), where only fat accumulates in the liver without causing any significant damage.
Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH) is a more severe form that causes liver inflammation and is accompanied by scarring (fibrosis). Eventually, it may result in liver cirrhosis or liver cancer if left untreated.
Causes of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)
Numerous factors can lead to NAFLD, and here are the most common causes:
- Obesity, especially abdominal fat.
- Insulin resistance—linked to metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes.
- High blood sugar, often called hyperglycemia, is associated with diabetes.
- Accumulation of fats in the blood
- Poor dietary habits, like consuming sugary beverages, processed foods, and unhealthy fats.
- Lack of physical activity promotes fat accumulation
- Family history of liver diseases
Symptoms of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)
Most people with NAFLD might not experience any noticeable symptoms until the condition becomes severe. It is also called a “silent” disease. However, if NAFLD symptoms do occur, they include:
- Fatigue
- Abdominal pain
- Sudden weight loss
- A weak feeling
- An increase in the size of the liver
In advanced stages, people may experience symptoms like jaundice, swelling in the legs or abdomen, and mental disorientation.
Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Weight Loss
The connection between NAFLD and weight loss is very important and has been proven. Weight loss is not merely a suggestion; it is the core objective in treating this disease. According to studies, losing just 5-10% of your body weight can greatly reduce your liver fat, inflammation, and fibrosis.
Why Is Weight Loss A Key NAFLD Treatment?
Accumulation of liver fat in NAFLD is closely connected to excess body fat, especially intra-abdominal fat (also known as visceral fat)—the fat piled up deep inside the abdomen, which surrounds the inner organs. It is important to note that visceral fat is an active participant in the metabolic process of the body, which discharges inflammatory substances and free fatty acids into the bloodstream, which directly contributes to the formation of liver fat.
What happens when you lose weight?
- Studies have proven that weight loss can directly contribute to liver fat reduction.
- It improves insulin sensitivity, which means less fat is stored in the liver.
- Reduces inflammation associated with the liver.
- Production of liver enzymes like ALT and AST becomes normal with weight loss.
- Reduces the risk of severe complications associated with the liver (cirrhosis or liver cancer).
How much weight should you lose?
- Losing at least 5% of body weight can improve liver steatosis.
- Losing 7-10% of excess body weight can improve steatohepatitis and may further reduce the risk of liver fibrosis.
- Losing more than 10% of body weight increases the chances of restoring liver damage.
For example, if your weight is 100 kg, you need to lose 5–10 kg of it to improve your liver health.
Best weight loss approaches in NAFLD
Dietary changes—follow a specific diet rich in vegetables, fruits & nuts, legumes, fish, and olive oil for healthy fats. Avoid refined carbohydrates and sugary drinks.
Regular physical activity plays a key role in weight management. Consult an expert and try aerobic exercises and resistance training. Consider 3 to 6 hours of moderate exercise to intense workouts every week.
People with severe obesity and NAFLD can opt for weight-loss medications or bariatric surgery. They are proven and effective medical procedures that aid in considerable weight loss.
Always seek professional help and set realistic, incremental goals. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is becoming a more significant public health issue, but it is mostly treatable, particularly with weight loss. If you are diagnosed with NAFLD and looking for the best weight loss solutions, consult Dr. Venugopal Pareek, one of the best bariatric surgeons in Hyderabad with more than 18 years of experience. He can help you regain control over your health.
