Fatty Liver: Why non-drinkers get fatty liver: 7 risk factors driving this liver crisis in teetotalers
Recent research shows NAFLD affects about a third of the global adult population, with cases steadily rising over the past two decades. Surprisingly, many people who develop it have no history of alcohol misuse, which gets us to the question: if not alcohol, then what's causing the damage?
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NDTV
3 hours ago
- NDTV
Fatty Liver In Non-Drinkers: Here's How Diet And Lifestyle Play A Role
Fatty liver is often believed to be a result of heavy alcohol consumption. However, extra fat build-up in the liver can be seen in non-drinkers, especially among obese and overweight individuals. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease has become more common than ever. It affects individuals who drink little or no alcohol. It is also the most common type of liver disease. If left uncontrolled, fatty liver can contribute to a severe form of disease and even cirrhosis. 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.
Time of India
4 hours ago
- Time of India
Manipur NEET UG 2025 merit list out for MBBS, BDS, BASLP, BPT courses: Check direct link here
The Directorate of Health Services (DHS), Manipur, has officially announced the merit list for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test Undergraduate (NEET UG) 2025. This list includes candidates who have applied for seats under the state government, Non-Resident Indian (NRI), and management quotas across various courses including Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS), Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS), Bachelor of Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (BASLP), and Bachelor of Physiotherapy (BPT). Applicants can download the merit list from the official website at: How to download Manipur NEET UG 2025 merit list To access the merit list easily, follow these simple steps: Visit the official website: Look for the notification or link titled 'Manipur NEET UG 2025 Merit List.' Click on the link to open the merit list PDF. Download and save the document for future reference. Check your name, roll number, and rank details in the merit list. Direct link to download the Manipur NEET UG 2025 merit list for various courses is available here. Manipur NEET UG 2025 merit list: Details mentioned The merit list comprises important candidate information such as name, NEET roll number, marks obtained, category and sub-category, date of birth, state rank, All India rank (AIR), and other relevant details. Candidates listed in this merit list are eligible to participate in the subsequent seat allotment process for admission to undergraduate medical and dental programs in the state. As per the list, Janakkumar Tekcham has achieved an AIR of 7864 with a NEET score of 561 under the government quota for MBBS and BDS courses. In the management quota, Taanvi Borodoloi Deka secured 477 marks with an AIR of 81777. Meanwhile, the NRI category includes a single candidate, Raeboun Ngasseppam, who scored 154 marks and holds an AIR of 1039201. What's next? Candidates who have qualified and are included in the merit list must participate in the state seat allotment counselling for MBBS, BDS, BASLP, and BPT courses. The Directorate of Health Services is expected to release the seat allotment results for Manipur NEET UG 2025 on August 14. Those allotted seats will be required to report to their respective colleges between August 14 and August 24. Candidates are advised to keep checking the official website regularly for further updates related to counselling and seat allotment. TOI Education is on WhatsApp now. Follow us here. Ready to navigate global policies? Secure your overseas future. Get expert guidance now!
NDTV
a day ago
- NDTV
Invest Rs 2,000 Today To Avoid Rs 2 Lakh Hospital Bills: Health Tests Every Indian Should Take
Preventive health care is gaining attention as experts urge people to prioritise early testing to catch potential issues before they escalate. With many serious conditions developing silently, timely screenings can make all the difference, not just for your health, but also for your financial well-being. Nutritionist Rashi Chowdhary has shared insights on key tests everyone should consider to stay ahead of hidden health risks. According to Rashi Chowdhary, Vitamin D, diabetes indicators like HbA1c and fasting insulin, and liver function are 3 essential tests that can help detect silent but serious health issues early and potentially save thousands of dollars in future medical expenses. In a post on Instagram, Rashi Chowdhary has explained that ignoring regular health tests can have serious consequences for your long-term health as well as your finances. Spending just Rs 2,000 on early testing could avoid difficulties later on that could cost Rs 2 lakh or more in hospital expenses. A lot of Indians disregard the early warning symptoms, attributing them to ageing or stress. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rashi Chowdhary (@rashichowdhary) Here are the essential tests that every Indian should do in order to prevent future health conditions: 1. Vitamin D test Up to 80 per cent of Indians suffer from vitamin D deficiency, which often results in low immunity, weak bones, and fatigue that they are unaware of. Many people confuse these symptoms with ageing or general fatigue. Although 30 mg/mL may be listed by labs as "normal," Rashi Chowdhary advises aiming for 60-70 mg/mL for best health. For best absorption, vitamin D should be taken in the morning with a high-fat meal. Steer clear of it at night because it interferes with the production of melatonin, which can cause sleep disturbances. 2. HbA1c and fasting insulin tests According to the nutritionist, there are currently 130 million diabetics in India, which was 70 million just six or seven years ago. One may have diabetes and not realise it till Type 2 diabetes strikes; about 50% of Indians may be prediabetic or diabetic without realising it. Dark patches on the neck, incessant nibbling, and unexplained weight gain are typical symptoms. Key tests include: HbA1c should be under 5.3% Fasting insulin should be below 5 mIU/L Reducing sugar, processed snacks, and refined carbohydrates like polished rice, roti, millets, and snacks is essential if these levels are high. 3. Fatty liver test India is now the NAFLD, or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, capital of the world. People are being diagnosed even if they are not overweight. Obesity is not usually associated with fatty liver, which often develops without any obvious symptoms. Visceral fat surrounding organs is considered more harmful than excess body weight. Rashi Chowdhary recommends taking liver enzymes (ALT, AST, albumin) tests, and an Ultrasound to assess the grade of fatty liver, ranging from Grade 1 (mild) to Grade 3 (severe). Grades of Fatty Liver: Less than 5%: Healthy 6%-33%: Grade 1 (mild) 34%-66%: Grade 2 (moderate) Over 66%: Grade 3 (severe) Making a small investment in your health now, particularly with these tests, can result in a longer life, more energy, and fewer hospital stays. In India, raising awareness and taking prompt action are still the most effective ways to improve health outcomes. Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.
