What is NAFLD?
NAFLD isn’t the abbreviation for some type of fantasy athletic team. The initials stand for Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. At present about 40 percent of American adults have a fatty liver.
Put simply, NAFLD is an excessive amount of fat within the liver. Fat builds up and accumulates in the liver something like dust accumulates and clogs a furnace filter. Liver function slows down as the result. The liver is a vital organ that helps to filter the blood, store energy, and metabolize nutrients.
What are the symptoms of fatty liver disease?
Most people with fatty liver disease don’t have any symptoms. However, some people may experience fatigue, abdominal pain, and weight loss. NAFLD is visible on ultrasound or CT scan of the abdomen. The presence of NAFLD is a major risk factor for COVID. It is statistically linked to increased risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
How is fatty liver disease treated?
Treatment for NAFLD focuses on lifestyle changes, such as losing weight, eating a healthy diet, and exercising regularly. If you have NAFLD and diabetes, your doctor will also work with you to control your blood sugar levels.
Can fatty liver disease be prevented?
Fatty liver disease can be prevented by making healthy lifestyle choices, such as:
- Eating a healthy diet
- Exercising regularly
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Avoiding excessive alcohol consumption
What are the complications of fatty liver disease?
Fatty liver disease can progress to more serious liver diseases, such as cirrhosis and liver cancer. Cirrhosis is a condition in which scar tissue replaces healthy liver tissue.
If you are interested in learning more about the natural health options we have to offer at Health+Plus Clinic here in the Kansas City area, call 816-625-4497 or use our contact page. We would love to meet you!