Prevention of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

According to the Mayo Clinic, "nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is common and, for most people, causes no signs and symptoms and no complications. But in some people with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, the fat that accumulates can cause inflammation and scarring in the liver." This disease ranges from the harmless nonalcoholic fatty liver to the moderately troublesome nonalcoholic steatohepatitis to eventually the most harmful nonalcoholic fatty liver disease with associated cirrhosis. In order to prevent the dangerous symptoms and progression of this disease, the key is to prevent fatty liver disease all together.

The Benefit of Weight Loss & Exercise

• A USNews.com health report on preventing nonalcoholic fatty liver disease recommends losing weight and exercising regularly. Losing weight reportedly can cause fatty liver disease to be "reversed in those who lost at least 9 percent of their body weight."

  Those who are already exercising regularly should consider changing their eating habits for further protection against this disease. Cut out foods that are high in saturated and trans fats. Increase your lean protein intake, eat more fruits and vegetables, eat heart-healthy fats like olive oil and avocado, and add whole grains to your daily intake to prevent or reverse this disease.

Drink an Occasional Glass of Wine

• The USNews.com health report also recommends drinking an occasional glass of wine. "Researchers at the University of California-San Diego School of Medicine found that drinking a glass of wine a day may decrease the risk of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Study participants who reported drinking up to one glass of wine per day had their risk of liver disease cut in half, in comparison with those who drank no alcohol." Since this form of fatty liver disease is not caused by alcohol consumption the wine won't cause any harm.

Treat All Medical Conditions

• By avoiding going to the doctor for other medical conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol, you are increasing your chances of developing nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. The majority of these conditions can be treated by the lifestyle changes mentioned in this article, so it will be beneficial all around. January W. Payne, the author of the USNews.com article says, "People with fatty liver should follow their doctors' recommendations for medications and control of these conditions" but does warn not to try experimental treatments as there is not a proven medicinal cure for fatty liver disease.