Latest news with #NAFLD
Time of India
a day ago
- Health
- Time of India
4 diet mistakes that can worsen fatty liver, even if oil and sugar intake is moderate
With non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) cases rising, dietary choices are crucial. Excessive salt intake, often overlooked, can worsen the condition. Processed foods, including seemingly harmless items like white bread, also contribute to liver damage. Red meat and processed meats should be avoided, while adequate protein intake is essential for proper liver function and fat removal, according to recent studies. Fatty liver disease is becoming more common than ever. About 32% of the adults have non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), according to a recent study . Lifestyle factors play a key role in the rising number of cases. Among them is diet. People living with NAFLD often limit oil and sugar intake. While taking off or limiting these ingredients from the diet can help, that's not enough. Here are four mistakes people make when it comes to their diet that worsen fatty liver. Excessive salt consumption While most people consciously avoid added sugars, one ingredient that is overlooked is salt. Excessive sodium in the diet can increase the risk of NAFLD. Eating food loaded with salt may lead to insulin resistance, high blood pressure, and oxidative stress, all of which may contribute to the accumulation of fat in the liver. People with NAFLD or any liver ailments should limit sodium intake to less than 2,300 milligrams per day. Those with hypertension should cut back on salt. The intake should not be more than 1,500 mg per day. Eating processed foods Even if you are on a balanced and nutritious diet, sneaking processed foods in between may contribute to liver disease and worsening of the already existing conditions. Processed food is not just about chips and biscuits; even white bread and pasta count. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 15 most beautiful women in the world Undo White flour is often highly processed, and such foods raise your blood sugar more than whole grains, as they lack fiber. Processed foods are also loaded with oil, salt, sugar, and preservatives, which wreak havoc on health. Red meat consumption (Pic courtesy: iStock) People with fatty liver should avoid red meat at all costs. Studies have consistently shown that red meat consumption may worsen NAFLD. A 2022 study found that people who consumed red meat were at increased odds of NAFLD. The study also showed an association between organ meat consumption and NAFLD. Along with red meat, one should also avoid eating processed meats. Processed meats are high in both sodium and saturated fat, all of which contribute to fatty liver disease. These include bacon, hot dogs, deli meats like salami and pepperoni, and canned meats. Not eating enough protein (Pic courtesy: iStock) This may be surprising, but not getting adequate amounts of protein can lead to fat buildup. A deficiency in protein may affect the liver's ability to process and remove fats. A 2020 study found that a high-protein, calorie-reduced diet can cause the harmful liver fat to melt away more effectively than a low-protein diet. Focus on sticking to a low-calorie diet that is rich in high-quality protein such as lean meats, fish, eggs, or legumes. Keep your heart young post-30s with these 4 simple ways
The Hindu
a day ago
- Health
- The Hindu
Liver and kidney transplant OT complex inaugurated in Coimbatore
With the rising burden of metabolic syndrome and fatty liver disease across India, VGM Hospital, Coimbatore, has opened a liver and kidney transplant operation theatre (OT) complex on Thursday. Dr. Arun Sanyal, Professor of Medicine, Physiology, and Molecular Pathology at Virginia Commonwealth University, USA inaugurated the facility. Lourianne Naximento Cavalcante, MD Hepatologist, Gastroenterologist from Bahia Brazil, was present. At the function, Dr. V.G. Mohan Prasad, Chairman of the hospital, said India was witnessing a rapid surge in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and metabolic dysfunction-associated liver disease (MAFLD), driven by obesity and type 2 diabetes. Adding fuel to fire was the ever increasing alcoholic liver disease. While Hepatitis B and C prevalence was low in Coimbatore, the neighbouring villages of Annur had one of the highest prevalence in the country, progressing silently to cirrhosis and liver cancer. The new transplant complex at VGM Hospital is equipped with modular OTs, HEPA-filtered laminar flow, specialised ICU units, and a multidisciplinary transplant team. The facility will offer both living donor and deceased donor liver transplants as well as complex kidney transplants. Dr. Mithra Prasad, MD, DM (Hepatology) Consultant Transplant Hepatologist, VGM Hospital, Coimbatore, Dr. Madhura Prasad Suman and Dr. Vamsi Murthy, Directors of Endoscopy; Dr. Suman, Orthopedic Surgeon at VGM Hospital, were present.
Hindustan Times
a day ago
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Stanford gastroenterologist explains fatty liver can be reversed with 4 simple diet and lifestyle changes: ‘Lose weight'
Did you know fatty liver disease can often be reversed with simple diet and lifestyle changes? Gastroenterologist Dr Wendi LeBrett, who studied at Stanford University, often shares health-related content on her Instagram page. On March 9, she posted about 'lifestyle changes you can make to improve fatty liver'. Also read | Fatty liver disease without symptoms? Here's how to catch it before it is too late Maintaining a healthy body weight is important to fight fatty liver. (Freepik) How to reverse fatty liver According to the gastroenterologist, if you exercise regularly, maintain a healthy weight, lose weight if overweight or obese, limit alcohol consumption and drink coffee, you can reverse fatty liver disease and improve your overall health. 'Fatty liver can be reversed. So, let's talk about four things you can do to improve your fatty liver,' she said in the Instagram video, adding, 'There are two things that cause fatty liver – no. 1 is alcohol use, and no. 2 is metabolic syndrome, the conditions that predispose you to having fat on your body. So, what can you do for fatty liver?' 1. 'Stop drinking alcohol. Even if it is once in a while, or one or two drinks in a week. You have got to stop drinking alcohol,' Dr LeBrett said. 2. 'Weight loss has been shown to improve fatty liver,' she added. 3. 'Exercise independent of weight loss. So even if you don't lose weight, exercise itself can improve fatty liver,' Dr LeBrett said. 4. Research studies have shown that drinking coffee, whether decaf or regular, can prevent fatty liver from becoming fibrosis, she added. What is fatty liver? In a 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). NAFLD is a big health problem worldwide, hitting millions of the population. Recently NAFLD has been renamed as MASLD (Metabolic Dysfunction Associated Steatosis liver disease). The majority of people may not have any symptoms. Some people might feel a little discomfort or heaviness on the right side of their belly, especially after eating a big meal.' 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.
The Star
2 days ago
- Health
- The Star
Liver health under the microscope as World Hepatitis Day nears
As World Hepatitis Day nears, Affinity Health brings attention to the significance of liver health, offering dietary insights that can make a difference and urging South Africans to prioritise their liver care. As World Hepatitis Day approaches on July 28, the spotlight falls on the importance of liver health and the role of nutrition in preventing liver disease. Experts are urging South Africans to pay closer attention to what they eat, especially as poor dietary habits, excessive alcohol intake, and undiagnosed infections - such as hepatitis B and C - continue to threaten public health. Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health, emphasises that the liver, often overlooked in daily health discussions, performs over 500 vital functions and plays an essential role in maintaining overall health. ' The liver is one of the body's hardest working organs, but also one of the most overlooked when it comes to everyday care,' says Hewlett. He also cautions that poor dietary choices, excessive alcohol consumption, and undiagnosed infections, such as hepatitis B and C, can lead to long-term liver damage. The foods we choose to consume can have profound effects on liver health. While some foods promote the liver's ability to repair itself and function optimally, others can lead to inflammation and fat accumulation, potentially culminating in serious health issues. Leafy greens: Spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are packed with antioxidants and assist the liver in flushing out toxins. Spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are packed with antioxidants and assist the liver in flushing out toxins. Fatty fish: Salmon, pilchards, and mackerel are rich in omega-3 fatty acids that can reduce liver fat and inflammation. Salmon, pilchards, and mackerel are rich in omega-3 fatty acids that can reduce liver fat and inflammation. Olive oil: A tablespoon a day can support healthy enzyme levels and diminish oxidative stress. A tablespoon a day can support healthy enzyme levels and diminish oxidative stress. Garlic: Contains selenium and sulphur compounds that stimulate detoxifying liver enzymes. Contains selenium and sulphur compounds that stimulate detoxifying liver enzymes. Avocados: High in fibre and healthy fats, they may help shield the liver against damage. High in fibre and healthy fats, they may help shield the liver against damage. Green tea: Loaded with catechins, it can enhance liver function when consumed in moderation. Loaded with catechins, it can enhance liver function when consumed in moderation. Beetroot: Supports bile flow and digestion while reducing oxidative stress in liver cells. Supports bile flow and digestion while reducing oxidative stress in liver cells. Processed meats and sugary snacks: Linked to an increased risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Linked to an increased risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Alcohol: Excessive consumption is a leading cause of cirrhosis and liver failure. Excessive consumption is a leading cause of cirrhosis and liver failure. Fried foods and takeaways: High in saturated fats that can overload the liver. High in saturated fats that can overload the liver. Sugary drinks: They are often rich in fructose, fostering insulin resistance and liver fat accumulation. They are often rich in fructose, fostering insulin resistance and liver fat accumulation. Salty packaged foods: Can cause fluid retention and undue strain on the liver over time. According to the World Health Organization, hepatitis B and C cause more than 1.1 million deaths globally each year, with chronic hepatitis B affecting an estimated 3.5 million South Africans—many unaware of their condition. Liver disease is often a silent threat, surfacing only at advanced stages when treatment options may be limited. However, there is a silver lining. Early screening, coupled with a commitment to a healthy lifestyle and better nutrition, can significantly reduce the risk of severe liver complications, including cancer and cirrhosis. The liver is an incredible organ boasting a remarkable ability to regenerate, but it requires diligent care. By making informed dietary choices, reducing alcohol intake, and scheduling regular medical check-ups, individuals can protect their liver health for life. Saturday Star
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Business Standard
2 days ago
- Health
- Business Standard
Apollo, Siemens collaborate to advance liver healthcare with AI innovation
Apollo Hospitals and Siemens Healthineers on Wednesday announced a research collaboration founded on a shared ambition to advance innovations in artificial intelligence (AI) and imaging technologies, with the goal of improving lives. The research, spanning quantitative ultrasound imaging to AI-driven clinical solutions, aims to enhance liver disease management by improving patient care pathways and outcomes—from early detection and risk stratification to monitoring intervention and therapy response. The partnership combines technical and clinical expertise to develop innovative healthcare solutions for the growing burden of liver diseases in India, with a focus on early diagnosis, accurate detection, and precise monitoring to improve patient outcomes. As per Government of India guidelines, Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD), referred to as NAFLD in the report, is a growing cause of liver disease in India. Its prevalence ranges from 9 per cent to 32 per cent and is higher among individuals who are overweight, obese, or have diabetes. According to NFHS-4 (2015–2016), 18–20 per cent of adults are overweight or obese and 3–8 per cent have abnormal blood sugar levels. MASLD significantly increases cardiovascular risk, with heart disease being the leading cause of death. 'At Apollo, we believe that the future of healthcare lies at the intersection of clinical excellence and cutting-edge technology anchored in patient centricity. Our collaboration with Siemens Healthineers is a transformative step in using AI to redefine non-invasive diagnostics for liver disease. Due to diagnostic challenges and the evolving understanding of the disease, the true prevalence of MASLD may be underestimated. This poses a significant public health challenge, requiring increased awareness, early detection, and effective management strategies,' said Sangita Reddy, joint managing director, Apollo Hospitals. 'AI-driven disease progression models will play a pivotal role in the early detection of fibrosis, allowing timely interventions, cost-effective screening, and improved patient outcomes. These models will also facilitate precision population health strategies and clinical decision support across care settings. This partnership reflects Apollo's pioneering vision to embed intelligent systems across the clinical spectrum that enable faster, more accurate diagnoses and proactive patient management,' she added. 'Liver disease is a growing health concern in India. It's crucial to prioritise early diagnosis and prevention through advanced diagnostic tools, lifestyle changes, and increased awareness to reverse this trend. We believe that advanced technologies will aid timely and precise diagnosis, leading to better disease management and improved quality of life for patients. Our joint effort will help address the unmet needs in liver disease diagnosis and treatment, and we look forward to a fruitful partnership,' said Hariharan Subramanian, managing director, Siemens Healthcare. Following the 2024 memorandum of understanding, the Master Research Agreement (MRA) was formalised in March 2025, establishing a foundation for collaborative research in diagnostic and interventional ultrasound imaging. The signing ceremony for the MRA addendum was held on July 23, 2025, in Hyderabad, marking a significant milestone in this partnership.
