Fatty liver is a condition characterized by the accumulation of abnormal amounts of fat in liver cells. Normally, the liver contains a small amount of fat, and this is usually not a health problem. However, in the case of fatty liver, the accumulation of fat cells in the liver makes it difficult for the liver to perform its normal functions. There are two main types of fatty liver disease: non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and alcoholic fatty liver disease (ALD). NAFLD is a condition not associated with alcohol consumption and is associated with metabolic risk factors such as obesity, diabetes, high cholesterol, insulin resistance. ALD occurs as a result of chronic alcohol consumption. Fatty liver can be reversible with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
What are the symptoms of fatty liver?
Fatty liver or “steatosis” in the medical literature is an abnormal accumulation of fat in the liver cells. Normally, there are some fat cells in the liver, but in the case of fat accumulation, fat accumulation in these cells increases and can cause liver damage. Fatty liver can generally occur in two types. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease refers to a condition in which there is an accumulation of fat in the liver independent of alcohol consumption. NAFLD can often be associated with metabolic syndrome such as obesity, high blood fats, type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, high blood pressure.
Alcoholic fatty liver disease is the condition in which there is accumulation of fat in the liver due to alcohol consumption. Long-term excessive alcohol consumption can lead to the accumulation of fat in the liver and over time can cause liver damage. Fatty liver does not usually cause symptoms, and most people may not even be aware of it. However, in advanced cases, symptoms such as abdominal pain, enlarged liver, fatigue, loss of appetite, weight loss, and jaundice may occur. Fatty liver is usually asymptomatic in the early stages and is usually discovered incidentally during a blood test or imaging method. The symptoms of fatty liver can progress as follows:
- Weakness and fatigue
- Abdominal pain and discomfort
- Tenderness or swelling in the liver area
- Anorexia and weight loss
- nausea and vomiting
- Yellowing of the skin (jaundice)
- Digestive problems, especially difficulty digesting fatty foods
What is good for fatty liver?
For the treatment of fatty liver, it is important to see a healthcare professional and evaluate the situation with blood tests and necessary imaging methods. By creating a customized treatment plan, your doctor can suggest steps to support your liver health and reduce fat accumulation. Apart from doctor treatment, there are a number of methods to prevent fatty liver in life. “How is liver fattening?” Some natural methods can be suggested for the question. There are effective natural treatment methods for fatty liver. Things to consider about how to prevent fatty liver:
- A Healthy Diet: Review your dietary habits to support liver health. Eat natural and unprocessed foods, consume high-fiber vegetables, fruits, whole grains, healthy fats and low-fat protein sources. Also, avoid sugary and processed foods, trans fats and saturated fats.
- Regular Exercise: Physical activity plays an important role in combating fatty liver. Get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week. Exercises such as walking, jogging, cycling promote fat burning and support the healthy functioning of the liver.
- Limiting Alcohol Consumption: Alcohol is one of the main causes of fatty liver. Limiting alcohol consumption or quitting altogether if possible is important for liver health.
- Antioxidant Rich Foods: Antioxidants support liver health and may reduce fat accumulation. Include antioxidant-rich foods such as green leafy vegetables, citrus fruits, carrots, broccoli, garlic, onions, and green tea in your diet.
How is the fatty liver diet?
A good diet is necessary to prevent fatty liver disease. For this, a fatty liver diet can be done. Avoid high-fat and sugary foods in the diet and focus on natural foods to prevent fatty liver disease. In addition, alcohol consumption should be completely stopped and weight should be controlled. It is important to adopt a healthy diet to combat fatty liver disease. Here are some points to consider in a fatty liver diet:
- Low Fat Content: Limit fat consumption and avoid saturated fats in particular. Get fats from healthy sources such as raw nuts, avocados, olive oil.
- Fibrous Foods: High-fiber foods regulate the digestive system and reduce fat absorption. Include fibrous foods such as whole grains, vegetables, fruits and legumes in your diet.
- Low Sugar Content: Sugary foods and beverages can increase fatty liver. Use natural sweeteners or low-sugar alternatives instead of refined sugar.
- Protein Balance: Focus on low-fat protein sources. Consume proteins such as salmon, turkey, chicken breast, egg whites, lentils and chickpeas.
What should be done to remove the fat in the liver?
Fatty liver is a serious condition and it is important to seek professional medical advice. Your doctor will recommend the most appropriate treatment plan and lifestyle changes for you. Remember, with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, you can protect your liver health and reduce fat accumulation. Foods that cleanse the liver and some herbal treatment methods can also be used to support liver health.
It is thought that some herbal treatments may be supportive for liver health. However, as with any health condition, it is important to always consult a doctor before starting herbal therapy for the treatment of liver ailments. It would also be helpful to consult a specialist regarding the use of herbal treatments. Herbal treatment of fatty liver:
- Silymarin (Milk Thistle): Milk thistle is one of the most popular herbal supplements for the liver. It contains a substance called silymarin and has antioxidant properties. Milk thistle may protect liver cells, reduce inflammation and support liver function. It is available as a supplement in tablet, capsule, or liquid form.
- Artichoke: Artichokes contain compounds that support liver health. It can support the detoxification processes of the liver and help reduce fat accumulation in the liver. You can reap its benefits by cooking fresh artichokes or consuming tea made from artichoke leaves.
- Turmeric: Turmeric is a spice with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. A compound called curcumin may be beneficial for liver health. It can support the detoxification processes of the liver and reduce inflammation. You can get turmeric by adding it to meals or drinks or using turmeric supplements.
- Green tea: Green tea is a beverage rich in antioxidants. The catechins it contains can support liver health and reduce liver damage. Consuming 1-3 cups of green tea a day may be beneficial.
- celandine: Celandine is an herb traditionally used to treat liver ailments. It can help support the detoxification processes of the liver and contribute to the regulation of liver enzymes. Celandine can be used in the form of tea or supplements.
These herbal supplements are common herbal options used to support liver health. However, it is important to consult your doctor before using any herbal supplement, especially if you have current medications or health conditions. It is also important to use herbal supplements safely and in appropriate doses.