Understanding Fatty Liver: What You Need to Know About NAFLD
In today’s fast-paced world, many people unknowingly consume an excess of carbohydrates in their dietary habits. Our bodies process these carbs, converting any surplus into fat, which is then stored for future use. This accumulated fat can gradually infiltrate our organs, especially the liver, resulting in a condition called Fatty Liver or, more formally, Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD). In this blog post, I will explore what Fatty Liver is, how to identify it, and the promising possibilities for reversing its effects.
What Is Fatty Liver (NAFLD)?
Fatty Liver, or NAFLD, is a condition characterised by the excessive accumulation of fat in the liver. Unlike alcoholic liver disease, NAFLD occurs in individuals who do not consume excessive amounts of alcohol. Instead, it is primarily linked to poor dietary choices and sedentary lifestyles.
Visceral Fat: Visceral fat, which accumulates around our organs, including the liver, is the term for this fat. It is of particular concern because it correlates with a higher risk of severe health issues, including cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. The impact of visceral fat on your health can be evaluated and quantified, often with specialised machines, like the one available at my clinic.
How Do You Know if You Have Fatty Liver (NAFLD)?
One of the challenges of diagnosing NAFLD is the absence of definitive symptoms in the early stages. Individuals with Fatty Liver may experience general lethargy, but this is a nonspecific symptom that can easily be overlooked or attributed to other causes.
Liver Enzymes: A more concrete way to identify the presence of NAFLD is through regular blood tests. In NAFLD, liver enzymes in the blood are often elevated above the healthy range. It’s important to note that the reference range for these enzymes on standard blood tests is based on an average of the population, which may include individuals with various health conditions. Naturopaths, on the other hand, often use a more tailored “healthy range” for interpretation. Even if your enzyme levels are not in the red zone or in bold, they may still indicate that your liver is accumulating fat, causing it to function sluggishly.
Is it Reversible?
The good news is that in most cases, Fatty Liver, or NAFLD, is a reversible condition. With the right lifestyle changes and dietary adjustments, you can take steps to improve the health of your liver. A Ketogenic lifestyle is perfect for this.
Dietary Changes: One of the most effective ways to combat Fatty Liver is by reducing your carbohydrate intake. By doing so, you can teach your body to utilise stored fat for energy rather than continually storing it in your liver. This process can lead to a gradual reduction of fat accumulation in the liver.
Timeframe for Improvement: Many individuals who adopt a low-carb diet and increase their physical activity notice improved liver enzyme levels in as little as 12 weeks. These changes suggest that the liver is beginning to clear out the excess fat, allowing it to function more efficiently.
So, what now?
Fatty Liver, also known as NAFLD, quietly develops over time due to poor dietary choices and a sedentary lifestyle. While it may not immediately show symptoms, it can significantly impact your long-term health. However, you can reverse the effects of Fatty Liver and improve your liver’s function with the right approach, including dietary modifications and increased physical activity. It’s crucial to regularly monitor your liver enzyme levels through blood tests to track your progress and ensure your liver’s health. So, seize control of your liver health today and make the necessary changes to prevent or combat Fatty Liver (NAFLD). Your future self will thank you.
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