Fatty Liver

What is Fatty Liver Disease?

When the body creates too much fat or fails to metabolise fat fast enough, the excess amount of fat is stored and accumulated in liver cells, resulting in fatty liver disease. The liver normally contains some fat, but if as much as 5% to 10% of the organ's weight is made up of fat, it may be a sign of fatty liver disease. This condition usually has no symptoms and is reversible.

There are two main types of fatty liver disease:

  • Alcoholic fatty liver disease
  • Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

There is no specific treatment available for fatty liver disease, but it can be managed by lifestyle change and management of other diseases as follows:

  • Abstain from alcohol
  • Treat diabetes
  • Lose weight
  • Maintain a balanced and healthy diet
  • Exercise regularly and stay fit
  • Cut down on foods high in carbohydrates such as bread, rice and potatoes
  • Cut down on sugar and sugary drinks

Related Specialties