The Silent Epidemic: Why Fatty Liver Is Becoming Increasingly Common In Young Adults
Once considered a condition affecting middle-aged, older individuals, Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) is now increasingly diagnosed in people as young as their early 20s
Fatty liver disease, particularly Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD), is quietly emerging as a major health concern among young adults in India. Once considered a condition affecting middle-aged and older individuals, NAFLD is now increasingly diagnosed in people as young as their early 20s. Lifestyle changes, rising obesity, and dietary habits are among the key drivers of what experts are now calling a 'silent epidemic."
A Modern Lifestyle Problem
At the core of this alarming trend is the modern sedentary lifestyle. Long hours of sitting—whether at desks, in front of screens, or during commutes—combined with a lack of physical activity disrupt normal metabolism and promote fat accumulation in the liver. What's more concerning is that even individuals who appear slim or fall within normal BMI ranges may be at risk due to what's now termed 'lean NAFLD," where visceral fat affects internal organs without visibly increasing body weight.
Unhealthy eating habits are another major contributor. 'The easy availability and frequent consumption of processed, high-sugar, and high-fat foods, especially among college students and young professionals, is drastically impacting liver health. Add to that sugary drinks and late-night eating habits, and the liver is constantly under assault," explains Mool Meena, Founder & CEO, Sheopals.
What makes fatty liver especially dangerous is its potential to act as a gateway to more serious conditions. NAFLD increases the risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and liver cancer. In some cases, it may lead to liver failure, requiring transplantation.
Prevention Through Lifestyle and Ayurveda
The good news is that fatty liver is largely reversible, especially in its early stages. A multi-pronged approach involving a healthy diet, regular exercise, weight management, stress reduction, and routine health checkups can make a significant difference.
Nutritionists recommend a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, while avoiding saturated fats and refined sugars. Exercise, including strength training and cardio, for at least 150 minutes a week, is critical. Losing just 5–10% of body weight can substantially reduce liver fat and inflammation.
Complementing lifestyle changes, traditional herbs are also gaining recognition for their hepatoprotective properties. Herbs like Kutki (Picrorhiza kurroa), Bhumi Amla (Phyllanthus niruri), Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa), Bhringraj (Eclipta alba), and Makoi (Solanum nigrum) have been used in Ayurveda to help repair liver cells, detoxify the liver, and protect against chemical damage.
'Scientific interest in these herbs is growing, as they offer a natural adjunct to lifestyle management for fatty liver. They support liver function, reduce oxidative stress, and aid in the body's natural detoxification processes," says Dr. Mandeep Sahanpal,BAMS, BLSLLB.
A Call to Action
As NAFLD becomes more prevalent among India's younger population, it's crucial to increase awareness, promote early screening, and adopt proactive lifestyle habits. Combining the best of modern medicine with time-tested traditional knowledge can help reverse the tide of this silent epidemic and protect the health of an entire generation.
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