Doctor shares case of person ‘who never touched alcohol' yet was diagnosed with fatty liver: ‘He came for just a routine check-up'
He chuckled and said, 'But I've never touched alcohol in my life…' Confused. Shocked. Almost guilty for something he never did.
But the doctor didn't laugh. He simply said: 'It's not always the bottle… sometimes, it's the lifestyle.'
Dr Shagun rued that no one talks about this. 'Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) or MASLD is now affecting 1 in 3 Indians — including teetotalers, vegetarians, even college students,' said Dr Shagun in a post on Instagram.
Because it's not about alcohol, but…
*Skipping breakfast and bingeing late at night
*Sitting 8+ hours a day with zero movement
*Sugary chai 4 times a day, thinking 'it's just tea'
*Sleeping at 2 AM and waking up tired every day
*That daily dose of oily food, sweets, and no fibre
According to Dr Shagun, the patient's liver was inflamed. 'His enzymes were rising. And if he hadn't caught it now, the damage could've been irreversible. It could've gone to NASH, then fibrosis, and finally, cirrhosis – a silent killer that shows no warning signs until it's too late.'
The doctor also shared that the patient made the requisite changes in his diet.
'But this story doesn't have to end in fear. Because he took control. He got the right tests. He changed his diet. He walked every day. He learned what his body was silently trying to say,' said Dr Shagun.
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) can happen even if a person has never touched alcohol, noted Dr Manjusha Agarwal, senior consultant, internal medicine, Gleneagles Hospital Parel Mumbai.
'This is so because this condition is often associated with metabolic factors rather than alcohol use. So, don't be surprised or shocked, as even non-alcoholics can suffer from MASLD. Moreover, many people who haven't had a single drop of alcohol in the age group 25-40 are now seeking help. Common causes include being overweight, having diabetes or prediabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and an unhealthy lifestyle with little physical activity,' said Dr Manjusha.
Eating a diet high in sugars, refined carbs, and unhealthy fats can also lead to fat buildup in the liver and raise the chances of suffering from this condition.
According to Dr Manjusha, genetics may play a role, making some people more likely to develop it even if they are adhering to a well-balanced diet. 'Over time, this excess fat in the liver can cause inflammation and damage, just like in alcohol-related liver disease, and impact the overall well-being,' said Dr Manjusha.
Dr Narander Singla, lead consultant, internal medicine, CK Birla Hospital, Delhi, also noted that certain health conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), can increase the risk of MASLD.
A post shared by Shagun Agarwal (@dr.shagunagarwal)
The good news is that MASLD can often be managed and even reversed with pivotal strategies such as healthy eating, regular exercise, weight control, and managing blood sugar and cholesterol levels under a doctor's guidance, said Dr Manjusha. 'It is the need of the hour for everyone to pay attention to liver health and improve their quality of life. Don't take your liver health for granted at all,' said Dr Manjusha.
Lifestyle changes to prevent or manage MASLD
Dr Singla suggested the following measures:
– Maintain a healthy weight: Losing weight, if needed, can help reduce liver fat.
– Eat a balanced diet: Focus on whole, unprocessed foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
– Exercise regularly: Regular physical activity can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce liver fat.
– Manage stress: Chronic stress can exacerbate MASLD; engage in stress-reducing activities like yoga or meditation.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Run, workout, repeat: Hyrox is taking Indian fitness by storm
Representative image/iStock Hyrox, a new global race format that's gaining popularity in India, is bringing people together through a mix of running and functional workouts. It's not just about competition, it's about pushing yourself and being part of a high-energy, supportive community. Unlike other competitive fitness trends, Hyrox offers participants with diverse and exciting challenges. We spoke to a few 'hyroxers' who share their experience. WHAT IS IT It is a global fitness race format that blends endurance running with functional strength workouts. The format includes eight rounds of a kilometre runs, with each round followed by a different workout station such as sled push, sled pull, burpee broad jumps, rowing, and sandbag lunges. Indians now seek more than a gym routine. They want purpose, performance, and community, all of which are offered by Hyrox. It's structured, goal-driven, and lets you compete with yourself while being part of something bigger. That's what makes it so appealing to the new-age Indian fitness crowd Dr Vajalla Shravani, fitness consultant & founder, fitness studio BENEFITS Builds full-body strength, endurance, and mobility Boosts mental resilience through high intensity training Mimics real-life movements, reducing injury risk Standardised format allows global performance tracking Multiple categories make it accessible for all fitness levels Encourages consistency, accountability and long-term commitment – Vajalla Shravani, fitness consultant & founder, fitness studio 'It's mentally challenging' Tarun Walecha (54), an architect and fitness enthusiast, is gearing up for an upcoming Hyrox race after previously attending to support friends. He says, 'The format of the race is completely different, intense and challenging because you run a kilometre and then do one exercise and you repeat this for eight times. So it is like you are restarting after every run and exercise which is exciting.' As for his diet to support his preparation for the race, he says, 'Since I am into fitness, I don't have to make drastic changes but focus on muscle gain through higher protein and calorie intake. I avoid fried food, excess carbs and sugar.' Preparing for Hyrox requires a diet that supports both endurance and strength gains. Consume complex carbs for sustained energy, 1.4-1.6 gm protein per kg body weight to build and repair muscle and healthy fats for stamina and joint health. Include electrolytes or a low-sugar electrolyte drink to prevent cramping and maintain performance Shalu Nijhawan, holistic nutritionist & health coach 'It is very addictive' Abhishek Jain (29), a market researcher and analyst, competed in Hyrox this May and is set to participate again in September. He says, 'Unlike other fitness challenges, Hyrox keeps you on your toes. You have to train in a way that prepares you for everything. It throws a workout at you after every kilometre. Crossing the finish line is surreal. You feel like you have achieved something you didn't know you could. Hyrox is very addictive. Once you do it, you feel like participating again to better yourself.' 'The cheering crowd motivated me to push myself' Anushka Purohit (25), an entrepreneur, loves Hyrox for its strong community spirit. 'Everyone comes together in the same arena, not to compete against each other, but to push themselves. The music, volunteers, and constant cheering create an uplifting atmosphere that pushes you even when you're struggling,' she says. With no specific training, she relied on her regular six-day workout routine, where her coaches added Hyrox-style drills. For her, the race is a test of resilience and mindset. 'Though I didn't follow a strict training plan, I did take part in Hyrox simulations, which really helped on race day. The key is to have an attitude that doesn't let you give up… Just keep going. That way, you'll not only enjoy the race but also feel the pride of accomplishing something great,' says Abhishek Jain, a Hyrox participant. WHO SHOULD TRY IT Gym-goers looking for a challenge Functional fitness enthusiasts, cross fitters and obstacle course racers Runners, cyclists or swimmers wanting to build strength and overall athleticism Beginners who want to start with fun, goal-oriented fitness WHO SHOULD AVOID IT Individuals with unmanaged cardiac and respiratory conditions Those recovering from recent joint surgeries or injuries Pregnant women (unless cleared for high-intensity activity) Those with chronic conditions must consult a physician before participating Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Happy Krishna Janmashtami Wishes, , messages , and quotes !
Time of India
7 hours ago
- Time of India
Top liver specialist shares 5 important facts about liver health
Liver diseases are alarmingly increasing, often diagnosed late when reversal is difficult. Gastroenterologist Dr. Sethi highlights the liver's regenerative ability, cautioning that chronic damage leads to irreversible scarring. He emphasizes coffee's benefits for liver health, linking 3+ cups daily to a 40% lower risk of cirrhosis and liver cancer. Dr. Liver diseases are skyrocketing, and often, people get diagnosed in later stages, where reversal becomes tricky. The liver is a vital organ responsible for crucial functions in the body, including metabolism, immunity, digestion, detoxification, and vitamin storage, among others. Dr. Saurabh Sethi, a board-certified gastroenterologist based in California, has now shared some important facts about liver health. Take a look. Liver regenerates The liver has a remarkable ability to regenerate. Interestingly, it's the only internal organ capable of this process. But that doesn't mean you take the liver for granted. Dr. Sethi emphasizes that though it can regenerate damaged cells, the liver is not invincible. 'Chronic injury leads to scarring that can't be reversed,' he warns. For instance, in the early stages of fatty liver diseases, both alcoholic fatty liver disease and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease are reversible. But if it progresses to cirrhosis, it cannot be reversed. Coffee is more than a pick-me-up Your morning cup of coffee could be doing more than waking you up. Dr. Sethi referred to coffee as 'liver medicine'. Yes, that's right, coffee is linked to improved liver function. According to multiple studies , drinking coffee, particularly two to three cups a day, may be associated with a lower risk of heart disease and dangerous heart rhythms, and may be associated with living longer. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Benefits of Trading Bitcoin CFDs IC Markets Learn More Undo '3+ cups daily linked to 40% lower risk of cirrhosis and liver cancer,' Dr Sethi said. However, if you want these benefits, it is important to skip the sugar and cream and have plain coffee. Though coffee has many health benefits, it may not be for everyone. 'However, be careful, individual sensitivity to caffeine varies and may cause insomnia, palpitations, or anxiety,' the liver doctor warns. Fatty liver affects 1 in 3 adults, even non-drinkers Liver diseases are on the rise. Though the incidences are increasing day by day, most people think it is linked to consuming alcohol. But guess what? Liver disease is not exclusive to heavy drinkers. There is a condition called nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which occurs when fat builds up in the liver, affecting about one in three adults globally . This condition is often tied to lifestyle factors, including diet. 'Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is skyrocketing and often silent until serious damage,' the doctor adds. Liver processes everything you swallow, including meds Fatty liver Dr. Sethi has explained how the liver processes everything you consume, including medications. Which is why it is important to take medications only according to your doctor's advice. 'Over-the-counter painkillers like acetaminophen in high doses can cause deadly liver damage. Always confirm the correct dosage with your doctor,' the doctor says. What is the link between fatty liver and diabetes mellitus? Sleep is crucial If you thought sleep had nothing to do with liver health, you are mistaken. Dr. Sethi shares that sleep quality directly affects liver repair. Poor sleep disrupts metabolism and the body's natural toxin-clearing processes. He advises getting at least 7-9 hours of sleep consistently. Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Happy Krishna Janmashtami Wishes, , messages , and quotes !
Hindustan Times
18 hours ago
- Hindustan Times
Make presumed consent the standard for organ donations
Make presumed consent the standard for organ donations To donate one's organs so that others may live is perhaps the noblest legacy one can leave. (ANI Photo) In the last decade, India has made bold strides in health care. Yet when it comes to organ transplantation, unfortunately, a silent crisis continues to claim thousands of lives. Organ Donation Day, which fell earlier this week, was yet another reminder for us to take action to urgently address the need for organ donation on a larger scale. Nearly half-a-million Indians die every year waiting for a life-saving transplant due to the unavailability of organs. We have the medical expertise, and what we need now is a collective will at a national level to bridge the gap between organ supply and demand. The gap between patients' needs and organ availability and transplantation in India shows the need for urgent change. Around 200,000 patients with end-stage kidney disease, 50,000 patients with severe liver failure, and 50,000 patients with severe heart disease require a transplant to save their lives. Against this, only around 1,600 kidneys, 700 livers, and 300 hearts are transplanted each year. Every day, at least 15 patients die waiting for an organ. Every 10 minutes, a new name is added to the transplant waiting list, each life hanging in the balance. Fewer than 5% of patients with end-stage kidney disease receive a life-saving kidney transplant. The situation for heart and lung patients is even more dire. Despite our world-class transplant surgeons, India's organ donation rate remains among the lowest in the world — only 0.65 donors per million population. By contrast, countries like Spain and Croatia have donation rates of over 30 per million. This disparity shows that the shortage of organs in India is not just a medical limitation but also a societal and policy challenge. Organ donation is the ultimate act of humanity. One donor can save up to eight lives by donating their heart, lungs, liver, kidneys, pancreas, and tissues. To donate one's organs so that others may live is perhaps the noblest legacy one can leave. The story of Sanjay Kandasamy is a reminder of what is possible. In 1998, as a 20-month-old infant with end-stage liver failure, he underwent a liver transplant at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals. His father donated a portion of his liver. Today, Sanjay is a practising doctor saving lives. This is not just a story of science but is a story of second chances, of renewal, and of life itself. A persistent challenge is that families often refuse to give consent for organ donation, even when it aligns with the donor's own wishes. This has to change with awareness campaigns and policy changes. It is critical to have compassionate communication with the potential donor's family to reduce the refusal rate for organ donation. One bold policy step would be adopting a 'presumed consent' system for organ donation, as countries such as Singapore, Croatia, Spain, and others in Europe have done. Under presumed consent, every adult is presumed to be an organ donor after death, irrespective of their relatives' decision, unless they have explicitly registered their decision not to be. In Europe, the presumed consent policy has been found to have a positive impact on donation rates, with an increase in organ donations and willingness to donate organs. The time has come when we must no longer allow our people to die for want of an organ. The gift of life must become a national priority, and with the right collective action, we can step into a future where every Indian who needs a transplant has a real chance to receive one. Prathap C Reddy is founder-chairman, Apollo Hospitals Group. The views expressed are personal.
