From belly fat to fatty liver: When weight gain speaks louder than you think
Although many people believe that gaining weight is an inevitable consequence of modern life, there might be more going on here than meets the eye as fat accumulates around the abdomen.
Tired of too many ads? go ad free now
This seeming alteration can be an indicator to an underlying metabolic disorder, which might be able to prolong and covertly impact vital metabolic organs like the liver. Among all of these issues, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is becoming more and more prominent as a condition with major health implications and a close connection to abdominal obesity.
When fat builds up in the liver in people who consume little or no alcohol, it can lead to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
It currently affects millions of people of all ages and is thought to be the leading cause of chronic liver disease worldwide. Central obesity, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, and hyperlipidemia—all components of the metabolic syndrome—are closely linked to the disorder.
Visceral, or abdominal, fat has biological activity. It releases hormones and inflammatory substances that disrupt the liver's and other organs' regular functions.
A series of metabolic disturbances can happen as the liver starts to retain fat in excess of what is typical. Steatosis, also known as fatty liver, is the accumulation of fat over time that can cause non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which is inflammation and damage to the liver cells for wear.
It can then lead to cirrhosis, fibrosis, and even liver cancer.
NAFLD can be a silent killer because it may not show any symptoms until it is well-established.
Tired of too many ads? go ad free now
A lot of cases are discovered by chance when we're doing normal health checks or looking into other issues. Elevated liver enzymes on a blood test, fatty infiltration on ultrasonography, or a FibroScan measurement of liver stiffness might all raise suspicions of NAFLD. A liver biopsy may occasionally be required to confirm the diagnosis and assess the degree of liver damage.
Managing fatty liver disease focuses mainly on treating the causes. Importantly, the management of fatty liver disease comprises lifestyle changes such as:
Weight loss:
Loss of 5–10% body weight can improve liver fat and inflammation.
Weight loss should be gradual, because rapid weight loss can worsen liver function.
Dietary modifications:
It is important that the diet is nutrient-dense and limits saturated fats, added sugar, and refined carbohydrates. The Mediterranean diet is nutrient-dense and consists of food such as vegetables, fruit, whole grain, lean protein, and healthy fats. This eating habits has shown great potential relevance to resolving fatty liver disease.
Regular exercise:
At least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity can improve insulin sensitivity and decrease liver fat independent of weight loss.
Medical Management: No medication has been authorized expressly to treat non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Guidelines are implemented for treating diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol in relation to fatty liver disease. For some patients, vitamin E and specific insulin-sensitizing medications may be taken into consideration.
Patients could require more intensive treatment if they have severe liver damage. A liver transplant treatment might be necessary for patients with cirrhosis. Important preventive actions include keeping an eye on waist circumference and preserving a healthy body composition. A belly fad should not be written off as harmless; rather, it is a biochemical indication that the body's internal equilibrium might be in risk.
Early liver damage can be reversed and potential long-term problems could be avoided with the combination of timely medical treatment and consistent lifestyle changes.
Dr. Mangesh Keshavrao Borkar, Consultant - Medical Gastroenterologist, Manipal Hospitals, Kharadi, Pune
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Hindustan Times
4 hours ago
- Hindustan Times
Eating eggs helps the liver: The Liver Doc shares how many eggs in a day are safe
Dr Cyriac Abby Philips, a certified hepatologist popularly known as The Liver Doc, took to Instagram on May 30 to talk about eggs and how 'eating eggs really helps the liver'. Per The Liver Doc, a Framingham Heart study showed that eating fewer than two whole eggs a week, one egg a day, or even skipping eggs altogether made no measurable difference in who went on to develop non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) during six years of follow-up. Also Read | Thinking about adding eggs to your diet? Dietician shares full nutrient profile of this popular protein Why? According to Dr Cyriac, it is because the real protector was dietary choline, and eggs happened to be its richest source. 'People who consumed the highest level of choline (approximately 400 mg per day) had a 31% lower NAFLD risk than those who consumed much less,' he added. A post shared by The Liver Doc (Cyriac Abby Philips) (@theliverdr) Dr Cyriac also stated in the post that whole eggs do not increase liver fat. Additionally, eating up to 1 egg per day (maximum 7 per week) is not associated with more heart disease. 'In fact, studies show an 8 percent lower risk of heart disease in the Asian population,' he added. - Safe for the 'general' public. - Neutral for heart disease and type 2 diabetes; no rise in death risk; may lower heart disease in Asian diets. - Neutral effect in many cohorts, but in USA studies, there is an increased risk of diabetes or all-cause death. - Caution if you have diabetes, very high LDL-C or familial high cholesterol disorder. - Small but measurable rises in all-cause and cancer death and in heart disease, but mostly within the USA studies. - Potentially unsafe long-term, especially when clubbed with Western diets high in processed meat & saturated fat. According to The Liver Doc, choline is a super compound in egg yolk that helps the liver. It is a vitamin B-like nutrient which is critical for brain development and liver function. He further explained, 'In both animal and human studies, a choline-deficient diet was associated with the development of severe fatty liver. So, contrary to current beliefs, egg yolks are good for the liver and help prevent fatty liver and do not cause or worsen it.' Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition
India.com
6 hours ago
- India.com
Dipika Kakar Diagnosed With Stage 2 Liver Cancer: Crucial Signs You Cant Afford To Miss, What Are The Red Flags
New Delhi: Popular television actress Dipika Kakar recently shared an update about her health on Instagram. She has been diagnosed with Stage 2 Liver Cancer, leaving her family, close friends and fans heartbroken. Dr Srujan Kumar Dasyam, consultant medical gastroenterologist, hepatologist and therapeutic, KIMS Hospital Hyderabad shared his insights on understanding the causes and symptoms of liver cancer is so vital. Catching it early dramatically improves treatment success, a truth underscored by recent cases, including public figures. Liver cancer, especially hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) — the most common type — typically emerges in livers already compromised. Experts at Johns Hopkins Medicine and Mayo Clinic consistently point to chronic viral hepatitis (Hepatitis B and C) as a primary culprit. These viruses spark ongoing inflammation, scarring (cirrhosis), and eventually, a higher risk of cancerous changes. But they're not the only risk factors: * Cirrhosis, no matter the cause: Whether it's from heavy alcohol use, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), or other conditions, cirrhosis creates a breeding ground for cancer. NAFLD, now more common with rising rates of obesity, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes, is a growing concern. * Heavy drinking: Too much alcohol directly harms liver cells, leading to inflammation and scarring that can progress to cirrhosis and cancer. * Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes: These conditions are strongly linked to NAFLD, which can escalate to severe liver disease and, ultimately, cancer. * Certain inherited liver conditions: Diseases like hemochromatosis can also elevate your risk. * Exposure to specific toxins: For instance, aflatoxins, a mold byproduct found in improperly stored crops, are known carcinogens. The tricky part about liver cancer is its sneaky nature; symptoms often don't show up until the disease has advanced. This makes staying vigilant incredibly important. Here are some critical red flags, highlighted by Mayo Clinic and Johns Hopkins Medicine, that you should never brush aside: * Unexplained weight loss and poor appetite: Losing a significant amount of weight without trying, along with a lack of hunger, can be a major warning sign. * Upper abdominal pain or discomfort: A dull ache or discomfort, often in the upper right side of your belly, needs attention. * Persistent nausea and vomiting: If you're constantly feeling sick to your stomach or throwing up, it's a symptom to address. * Constant weakness and fatigue: Feeling unusually drained and lacking energy could signal an underlying issue. * Abdominal swelling (ascites): Fluid buildup in your belly causing noticeable distension is a serious indicator. * Jaundice: A yellowish tint to your skin and the whites of your eyes points to problems with liver function. * Changes in stool or urine color: If your stools become pale or chalky, or your urine turns unusually dark, it could indicate a bile duct issue. * Unrelenting itching: This can occur when bile salts accumulate under the skin. Liver Cancer in India: The Shifting Landscape In India, liver cancer presents a significant public health challenge, with its incidence showing an upward trend over the last decade. From 2004 to 2014, the overall hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) incidence rate in India saw an 11% increase, rising from an age-standardized rate of 3.0 to 3.3 per 100,000 persons. While still lower than in some global regions, this rise is a cause for concern. Demographically, liver cancer disproportionately affects males, with a male-to-female ratio often cited around 4:1. The age of presentation typically varies, but a significant number of cases are seen between 40 to 70 years, with some studies indicating peaks around 40-55 years and again above 60 years. This bimodal distribution is often linked to the timing of hepatitis B infection acquisition. While Hepatitis B remains a dominant cause, the increasing prevalence of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD), driven by rising rates of obesity and type 2 diabetes in the Indian population, is swiftly becoming a major contributor to the climbing HCC incidence. This demographic shift highlights the urgent need for public health strategies focusing on lifestyle interventions to prevent NAFLD. What Patients Need to Know: Spotting Red Flags and Getting Screened If you notice any of these persistent symptoms, particularly if you have known risk factors for liver disease, don't wait — reach out to your doctor immediately. Getting evaluated quickly is essential. Your doctor might order blood tests (including liver function tests and AFP, a tumor marker), imaging like ultrasounds, CT scans, or MRIs, and in some cases, a liver biopsy for a definitive diagnosis. If you have chronic Hepatitis B or C, or cirrhosis, talk to your doctor about regular screening protocols. The Horizon of Hope: Advances in Liver Cancer Research While the path to managing liver cancer can be challenging, groundbreaking research is continually offering new hope. Scientists are making strides in several key areas: * Immunotherapy and Combination Treatments: A major breakthrough has been the integration of immunotherapy drugs with targeted therapies or localized treatments like transarterial chemoembolization (TACE). These combinations are showing significant promise in extending lives and improving outcomes, even in advanced stages of the disease, by harnessing the body's own immune system to fight cancer. * Non-Invasive Therapies: Innovative procedures like Histotripsy are emerging, using focused ultrasound waves to destroy tumors without the need for incisions, leading to fewer complications and faster recovery for eligible patients. * Smarter Diagnostics: Beyond traditional imaging, new blood tests (some combining multiple markers with demographic data) are being developed to detect liver cancer earlier, even before symptoms appear. The use of liquid biopsies, which analyze cancer cells or DNA fragments in blood, offers a less invasive way to diagnose and monitor the disease. Furthermore, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is being integrated into imaging to enhance the accuracy and speed of detection. These advancements represent a dynamic shift in how liver cancer is treated and diagnosed, offering more personalized and effective options for patients. Boosting Your Liver Health: Practical Advice for Everyone Beyond early detection, actively protecting your liver is a powerful preventive step. Here's what you can do: * Go easy on alcohol, or cut it out entirely: This is fundamental to preventing liver damage. * Maintain a healthy weight: Combat obesity with a balanced diet and regular exercise to prevent and manage NAFLD. * Eat smart: Load up on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and unhealthy fats. * Get vaccinated: Make sure you're protected against Hepatitis A and B if you're at risk. * Practice safe habits: Use safe sex practices and avoid shared needles to significantly lower your risk of Hepatitis B and C. * Be careful with meds and supplements: Always follow dosage instructions and tell your doctor about everything you're taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements, as some can harm your liver. * Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water helps your liver with its crucial detoxification work. By understanding what causes liver cancer, recognizing its warning signs, and taking proactive steps for liver health, we can all contribute to reducing its impact and embracing a future with more effective treatments.
Time of India
11 hours ago
- Time of India
5 things to avoid to reduce the risk of liver cancer
Liver cancer is a significant global health concern, with hundreds of thousands diagnosed annually. Reducing your risk involves avoiding processed meats high in nitrates and saturated fats, limiting alcohol consumption, and steering clear of sugary drinks linked to fatty liver disease. Additionally, minimizing deep-fried foods and quitting tobacco use are crucial steps for liver health. Liver cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. More than 800,000 people are diagnosed with this cancer each year globally, according to the American Cancer Society. However, by making some lifestyle changes, one can reduce the risk of liver cancer. Here are five key things to avoid to lower the risk. Processed meats Eating processed meats like bacon, sausage, hot dogs, and deli meats is linked to an increased risk of liver cancer. This is because processed meats often contain nitrates, preservatives, and high levels of saturated fats, which can contribute to liver damage and inflammation over time. The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies processed meats as a Group 1 carcinogen, due to their role in cancers, including those of the liver. To reduce risk, limit your intake of processed meat and opt for lean, unprocessed proteins, such as chicken, fish, or plant-based alternatives. Alcohol is a toxic, psychoactive, and dependence-producing substance that has been classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer decades ago. Alcohol consumption is the leading cause of liver damage, including cirrhosis, which significantly increases liver cancer risk. Long-term heavy drinking can cause irreversible harm. WHO notes that no level of alcohol consumption is safe for health. It doesn't matter how much you drink, the risk starts from the first drop of any alcoholic beverage. Yes, that's right. Sugary beverages such as sodas, energy drinks, and other packaged drinks are not good for the liver. Fructose consumption is linked to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which can increase the risk of liver cancer. These drinks contribute to obesity and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which can progress to cirrhosis and cancer. High sugar intake promotes fat buildup in the liver, a key risk factor. To reduce this risk, limit sugary drinks and opt for water, unsweetened teas, or naturally flavored seltzers. Ultra-processed foods, especially those deep-fried, are the real enemy of the liver. Regularly eating deep-fried foods, such as fried chicken, French fries, chips, and doughnuts, can cause liver inflammation and elevate liver cancer risk. These foods are often high in trans fats and calories, contributing to obesity and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which can progress to cirrhosis and cancer. Signs that all is not well with your liver Representative image Smoking increases the risk of all types of cancer, including liver cancer. This is because the liver breaks down the chemicals in tobacco smoke. Contact with these chemicals can lead to liver cell damage and potentially the development of liver cancer. Tobacco smoke can also cause scarring (fibrosis) of the liver, which is a known risk factor for liver cancer. Quitting smoking is the best way to reduce the risk. One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
