Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, associated with excessive accumulation of fat in liver cells, has become a real epidemic of the 21st century. It is estimated to affect approximately 20-33% of the world's adult population.
As explained by gastroenterologist from SM-Clinic Evgeniya Melnikova, the main risk factors for developing this disease are excessive consumption of high-calorie foods, refined carbohydrates (including pastries, cakes, candies, jams and preserves), sugary drinks and fructose (for example, honey, freshly squeezed juices and sweet fruits).
Melnikova emphasized that fatty hepatosis can develop for a long time without visible signs and is often discovered accidentally during ultrasound, CT or MRI examination of the abdominal organs. Symptoms may gradually appear, but they are not always specific: fatigue, decreased performance, weakness, nausea, discomfort in the right hypochondrium, loss of appetite. These manifestations may also be associated with other conditions.
More serious symptoms may develop over time. For example, pain in the heart area may indicate pressure from fatty liver on the heart, especially when the patient lies on the left side.
Therefore, if the heart is fine but pain occurs, the liver condition should be checked. In addition, the disease can lead to vitamin A deficiency and visual impairment due to insufficient bile production.
“To prevent fatty liver disease, it is important to focus on a balanced diet and an active lifestyle. You can start by reducing your intake of high-calorie and fatty foods, such as sweets, baked goods, and fried foods. Instead, you should give preference to fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Consumption of refined carbohydrates, such as sugar and white bread, should also be minimized,” says hepatologist Alla Yuzhnova especially for MedikForum.
Active physical activity plays a key role in maintaining a healthy weight and normalizing metabolism. Regular exercise, such as walking, running, or fitness classes, helps improve metabolism and helps prevent fat accumulation in the liver.
In addition, it is important to monitor your weight, as excess weight can increase the risk of developing fatty liver disease.
Maintaining a healthy weight and monitoring its changes also help reduce the likelihood of this pathology.
In general, a healthy lifestyle, including proper nutrition, physical activity, and regular medical check-ups, is the basis for preventing fatty liver disease and maintaining overall health.
Previously, MedicForum wrote about the harm of sausage for breakfast.
Important! Information is provided for reference purposes. Ask a specialist about contraindications and side effects and do not self-medicate under any circumstances. At the first signs of illness, consult a doctor.