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Information on Fatty Liver

Fatty liver is characterized by the accumulation of fat cells in the liver. A common condition, fatty liver disease isn't serious in its early stages. But if left unresolved, permanent liver damage can occur. Diet and exercise can reverse this condition.

  1. Signs and Symptoms

    • For the most part, fatty liver disease doesn't present symptoms--especially in the beginning stages. And a number of people living with this condition don't notice a difference in their health. But as the condition worsens, you may start to feel a pain in the upper right side of your abdomen and experience unexplained fatigue.

    Diagnosing Fatty Liver

    • Doctors use two methods to diagnose fatty liver disease. They'll initially order lab work and examine your liver enzymes. High levels typically indicate some type of liver damage. To check for fatty liver (and to rule out more serious conditions), you'll need to undergo an imaging test such as an MRI or ultrasound.

    Causes and Risk Factors

    • The two most common causes of fatty liver disease are excessive alcohol consumption and a high-fat diet. Additionally, certain factors increase your risk of developing this condition, such as being overweight, high cholesterol, diabetes and high trigylcerides.

    Watch Your Diet

    • Whether you're trying to prevent or reverse fatty liver disease, your diet plays a huge role. Because a high-fat diet contributes to fatty liver, reducing your fat intake is a surefire way to stop the accumulation of fat in your liver cells and restore your liver's health, according to the American Liver Foundation. Eliminate junk foods from your diet and eat a healthy portion of low-fat or no-fat foods such as lean meats, fruits, whole grains and vegetables.

    Get Active

    • Along with a healthier diet, an active lifestyle can help you shed extra weight and reduce fatty liver disease. Get active and schedule at least 30 minutes of exercise (aerobics, running, walking) a day. You'll maintain a healthy weight and ward off numerous health conditions such as heart disease and diabetes.

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