Fatty Liver In Non-Drinkers: Here's How Diet And Lifestyle Play A Role
How poor diet and lifestyle choices increase your fatty liver risk
Diet and lifestyle significantly influence the risk of developing non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
Diet
Eating a well-rounded, nutritious diet rich in fibre, lean protein, and healthy fats is the best way to improve liver health. It also helps lower the risk of several diseases and promotes healthy weight loss.
Heavy consumption of high-calorie foods, particularly those rich in sugars, unhealthy fats, and processed foods, can lead to weight gain and fat accumulation in the liver. Additionally, excessive consumption of refined carbohydrates and sugary beverages can promote insulin resistance and weight gain, thereby contributing to fatty liver disease.
Lifestyle
Regular exercise can help you maintain your physical well-being and significantly reduce the risk of developing chronic health conditions.
Physical inactivity not only contributes to weight gain but also increases the likelihood of developing fatty liver disease.
Your diet and lifestyle choices are also linked with other factors which can further trigger the risk of developing fatty liver. Some of these include:
1. Obesity
Fatty liver in non-drinkers is more common in individuals who are overweight or obese. Excess body fat, particularly around the abdomen, can lead to increased liver fat deposition.
2. Metabolic conditions
Conditions like diabetes, high cholesterol, and hypertension are associated with an increased risk of fatty liver. Poor diet and inactivity can exacerbate these conditions, creating a cycle that further elevates the risk for fatty liver.
Other factors that can increase fatty liver disease risk
Smoking
Insulin resistance
Genetics
PCOS
Obstructive sleep apnea
Thyroid issues
Hormonal imbalance
High deposition of fat in the liver prevents it from working as effectively. However, timely treatment and lifestyle changes can prevent it from getting worse. If you are overweight, gradual weight loss with a healthy diet and regular exercise can help prevent irreversible damage. A nutrient-dense, whole-food-based diet is generally recommended for people with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
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