Latest news with #NAFLD
Indian Express
21 hours ago
- Health
- Indian Express
Actor Dipika Kakar reveals she has stage 2 liver cancer: What are risk factors for young women?
Popular TV actor Dipika Kakar has revealed she is battling stage 2 liver cancer via an emotional post on instagram. She and her actor husband, Shoaib Ibrahim, have been documenting the diagnosis ever since she suffered intense stomach pain and doctors discovered a tumour 'the size of a tennis ball' in her liver, which was later confirmed to be cancerous. Stage 2 liver cancer manifests as either a single tumour larger than 2 cm that has invaded blood vessels or multiple tumors of less than 5 cm. The cancer hasn't spread to lymph nodes or other parts of the body at this stage. How serious is stage 2 liver cancer? 'In stage 2, the cancer hasn't spread to lymph nodes or hasn't multiplied to distant parts of the body. There are high chances of cure with surgery,' says Dr Sachin Trivedi, Director of Medical Oncology, HCG Cancer Centre, Mumbai. He also says that post-surgery protocols are very important to contain future relapse or spread. 'Post-surgery, you need to do genomic testing of surgically removed cancer tissue to examine the DNA, which can provide insights into the cancer's behaviour, response to treatment, and potential recurrence risk. Accordingly a doctor can decide on a multimodal approach treatment, including targetted therapies, immunotherapy, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Newer blood tests tell us if the cancer can spread to the bloodstream so that we can nip it in the bud,' he says. What are triggers of liver tumours/cancers in young women? Dr Minish Jain, Director of Medical Oncology, Ruby Hall, Pune, says that liver tumours in young women are being seen more often today than in the past. One major reason is the rising number of young people, especially women, developing non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). 'This is often linked to obesity, poor diet, and a sedentary lifestyle. Since the liver regenerates and continues its normal functioning unless a complication is so big as to impair its functioning, NAFLD is undetected till it progresses to a more serious scarring and damage of liver tissue. This can lead to cancer,' he says. Another reason tumours are often found at a more advanced stage is because liver-related symptoms—such as fatigue, stomach discomfort, or weight changes—are easy to overlook or misdiagnose in younger women. Hormonal factors have also been associated with liver cancer. 'Long-term use of birth control pills has been linked to benign liver tumours called hepatic adenomas, which can sometimes grow large or even turn cancerous. Autoimmune liver diseases like autoimmune hepatitis, which are more common in women, can cause ongoing liver inflammation and damage over time, increasing the risk of cancer. In some cases, young women may have been infected with hepatitis B or C earlier in life without knowing it. These viruses can stay in the body for years, slowly damaging the liver and leading to cancer in adulthood,' says Dr Jain. Environmental factors, like eating food contaminated with aflatoxins (toxins from fungi), and the use of certain herbal supplements, may also damage the liver. What about prevention? Such cases show that each of us needs to assess the condition of our liver, find out if it is fatty, and not ignore it at all. 'If you have known risk factors like family history, diabetes and obesity, have had hepatitis B and C, are a smoker or drinker, then do a liver function test, an ultrasound and fibroscan, every six to 12 months, depending on whether your readings are in range or not,' advises Dr Trivedi.
Time of India
2 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
5 common fruits to combat fatty liver disease naturally
Incorporating certain fruits into your diet may help combat fatty liver disease. Apples, rich in pectin and polyphenols, aid detoxification and reduce inflammation. Blueberries, packed with anthocyanins, protect liver cells and enhance insulin response. Lemons boost detoxification with vitamin C and stimulate bile production. Avocados improve lipid metabolism and reduce inflammation with healthy fats and glutathione. Fruits are a vital part of a balanced diet — they strengthen immunity, support digestion, and aid in natural detoxification. They're also known to reduce inflammation and promote heart and liver health. Interestingly, some fruits go a step further and may help combat fatty liver disease too. As per a study published by the National Library of Medicine , higher fruit consumption may be associated with a reduced risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in certain populations. Another study highlighted the therapeutic potential of bioactive phytoconstituents found in fruits for NAFLD management. These compounds, including polyphenols and flavonoids, exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help in reducing liver fat accumulation and improving liver function. Here are 5 everyday fruits that may help fight fatty liver disease. Apples are rich in pectin, a soluble fiber that binds to toxins and cholesterol in the digestive tract. It reduces the load on the liver by helping the body eliminate waste through the intestines, preventing fat buildup in liver cells. They are also rich in polyphenols like quercetin and catechins, which fight oxidative stress. These compounds help reduce inflammation and protect liver cells from damage associated with fatty liver. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Buy Brass Idols - Handmade Brass Statues for Home & Gifting Luxeartisanship Buy Now Undo Also, apples have a low glycemic index and slow-digesting carbs, which helps maintain stable blood sugar levels, reducing insulin resistance — a major factor in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). These berries are rich in antioxidants called anthocyanins, which gives them the deep blue colour and also protects the liver cells from oxidative stress and inflammation, which are major drivers of fatty liver disease progression. Also, blueberries have been shown to enhance insulin response, which helps the body better manage blood sugar and prevent fat buildup in the liver. They also support liver health by protecting against liver fibrosis. They are rich in vitamin C, which boosts liver detoxification by supporting the production of glutathione, a key antioxidant. They also help the liver neutralize and flush out toxins, reducing overall liver burden and oxidative stress. Lemons are said to stimulate bile production, which helps break down fats during digestion, and enhanced bile flow supports fat metabolism, which prevents fat accumulation in the liver. Lemon peel and juice also contains D-Limonene, a compound that reduces liver cholesterol levels, liver fat, and protects against oxidative damage. This exotic fruit is rich in healthy fats (monounsaturated fats) that help improve lipid metabolism and reduce bad cholesterol (LDL). They also help reduce fat accumulation in liver cells and prevent liver inflammation often seen in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Avocados are also rich in glutathione, a powerful antioxidant that detoxifies the liver and protects it from oxidative damage. Avocados are said to manage blood sugar better by reducing fat buildup in the liver. They are packed with nutrients like vitamin C, E, potassium, and folate that reduce inflammation and liver cell damage. Papaya is rich in vitamin C, A, and flavonoids, and these antioxidants help detoxify the liver and reduce oxidative stress, which plays a major role in fatty liver progression. They also contain papain, a digestive enzyme, that aids in the breakdown of proteins and improves digestion. They also have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammatory markers, protecting liver tissue from further damage. It is also said that papaya can help lower LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, both of which are linked to fat accumulation in the liver. Thumb and Embed Images Courtesy: istock Can't eat your food without snapping a picture first? Join our Food Photography Contest and stand a chance to win exciting prizes! Click HERE for details. Join our WhatsApp Food Community to discover delicious recipes, enjoy fascinating food stories, and stay updated with the latest food news! Click here One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
Hindustan Times
3 days ago
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Fatty liver diet: Nutritionist shares top 5 foods for liver detox, reducing fat
Incorporating certain foods into your diet can help support liver health and potentially alleviate fatty liver symptoms. On May 25, nutritionist Ashima Achantani shared a list of five beneficial foods for fatty liver on Instagram and explained why these foods should be consumed. Also read | Nutritionist shares 11 simple things you can do to keep your liver healthy: Fasting overnight to eating veggies Here's what to eat to support liver health: She said, 'Turmeric with black pepper can be had in water or milk once a day for 1 week, then restart after 2 weeks. Turmeric supports liver detox.' Ashima added, 'Garlic – grated and swallowed with water or added to meals. Garlic reduces liver fat.' She said, 'Lemon – 1 lemon juice every day. Can be sprinkled over meals or simply added to water. Lemon juice aids liver cleansing.' Ashima added, 'Tomato – add to salad. Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, good for liver.' She concluded, 'Oats – have it as you like. Powder it and make roti or cheela or simple oats bhel. Oats are high in fibre, easy on the liver.' A post shared by Ashima Achantani | Certified Nutritionist (@thehealthstory01) The liver is a vital organ, working hard to keep us healthy as it has various important functions like detoxification, metabolism of carbohydrates and fat proteins. In a March 2024 interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Lorance Peter, director, gastroenterology and hepatology at Sakra World Hospital in Bengaluru, said: 'Fatty liver disease is when your liver, which should only have about 5% fat, starts hoarding more fat than it should. This can be assessed by a simple ultrasound examination of the liver when it is bigger and brighter than usual – that's a sure sign of fatty liver.' He added, 'Fatty liver disease, also known as hepatic steatosis, happens when your liver cells gather too much fat, and this fat interferes with the normal metabolic functions of the liver cells. There are two main types: one caused by drinking too much alcohol (AFLD) and the other not linked to alcohol but associated with obesity, diabetes, or metabolic dysfunction (NAFLD).' 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.
Time of India
5 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
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
Hindustan Times
7 days ago
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Frequent use of painkillers to extreme diets: Doctor reveals 10 toxic foods and habits that secretly harm your liver
Alcohol can have damaging effects on your liver. You're more at risk of developing alcoholic liver disease. But if you consume heavy amounts of sugary foods and drinks or frequently use painkillers, it can slowly – and often silently – wear down your liver function. Also read | Stress affecting liver health? Yoga expert shares 4 breathing techniques to boost natural detox In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Kanika Narang, HOD and deputy manager of the dietetics department at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, shared a list of 10 common culprits you may not suspect but are actually harming your liver. She also shared the smart, health-conscious swaps you can make to keep your liver thriving. 'The liver is often overshadowed by the heart and brain in conversations about health, yet it plays a vital role in over 500 functions - detoxifying blood, metabolising nutrients, and regulating hormones. But even this powerhouse has its limits. Daily dietary choices and lifestyle habits can slowly and often silently wear down liver function,' she said. She added, 'The liver is remarkably resilient, but it's not invincible. Chronic damage often goes unnoticed until the condition becomes severe. Protecting this vital organ doesn't require radical change – just mindful eating, active living, and avoiding unnecessary chemical stressors. Small changes can lead to monumental benefits. Give your liver the care it deserves – ditch the hidden toxins and choose nourishment over neglect.' According to Kanika Narang, here's what you need to know to make better choices for your liver: ⦿ Why it's toxic: The liver metabolises alcohol, but chronic intake leads to fat buildup, inflammation (alcoholic hepatitis), and ultimately, irreversible damage in the form of cirrhosis. ⦿ Better choice: Stick to no more than 1-2 drinks per week, or opt for liver-friendly beverages like beetroot juice or turmeric lattes, known for their antioxidant properties. ⦿ Why it's toxic: High fructose intake - common in sodas, candies, and desserts - is strongly linked to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), even in people with normal body weight. ⦿ Better choice: Satisfy your sweet tooth with fibre-rich fruits such as apples, berries, or citrus fruits, which support liver function while curbing sugar spikes. ⦿ Why it's toxic: Deep-fried snacks, chips, and packaged fast foods are packed with trans fats and preservatives that promote fat accumulation in the liver. ⦿ Better choice: Choose oven-baked, steamed, or grilled meals made with healthy fats like olive or avocado oil. ⦿ Why it's toxic: A sodium-heavy diet contributes to fluid retention and elevated blood pressure, placing indirect strain on liver circulation and function. ⦿ Better choice: Enhance flavour naturally with fresh herbs, garlic, or lemon juice instead of reaching for the salt shaker. ⦿ Why it's toxic: Even moderate overdoses of acetaminophen can cause acute liver injury, especially when combined with alcohol or taken during fasting. ⦿ Better choice: Use only as prescribed, avoid alcohol while medicated, and consider alternatives like physiotherapy or natural anti-inflammatories (e.g., turmeric or omega-3s) for chronic pain. ⦿ Why it's toxic: Diets high in red and processed meats are linked to increased liver fat, insulin resistance, and inflammation. ⦿ Better choice: Replace with plant-based proteins such as lentils, beans, and tofu, or include fatty fish like salmon, which provides anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids. ⦿ Why it's toxic: Some research suggests excessive intake of artificial sweeteners like aspartame or sucralose may negatively impact gut flora and liver fat metabolism. ⦿ Better choice: Use natural alternatives like stevia, raw honey, or jaggery in moderation. ⦿ Why it's toxic: Cigarette smoke introduces harmful chemicals that impair liver detoxification, reduce the efficacy of medications, and accelerate liver disease progression. ⦿ Better choice: The most liver-loving decision? Quit smoking. Even partial cessation leads to significant improvements in liver enzyme levels and metabolic health. ⦿ Why it's toxic: Lack of physical activity is a silent contributor to liver fat buildup and insulin resistance, both precursors to NAFLD. ⦿ Better choice: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity daily – walking, cycling, or yoga all help boost liver circulation and metabolism. ⦿ Why it's toxic: Rapid weight loss triggers a surge of free fatty acids to the liver, which can worsen inflammation and liver damage. ⦿ Better choice: Focus on gradual, sustainable weight loss through balanced eating and consistent physical activity. Aim to lose no more than 0.5-1 kg per week. 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.
