Fatty liver? A healthy diet can control it

The number of patients who suffer from various liver-related ailments is alarmingly going up. Most people falsely believe that liver ailments are caused only by excessive consumption of alcohol.

Liver diseases are of two types – Alcoholic Liver Disease (ALD), which is caused by alcoholic consumption, and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) which may be caused by some other reason. NAFLD can be found in those who do not drink heavily, non–drinkers and even in pre-diabetic and diabetic patients.

Studies reveal that more than a million patients undergo treatment for various liver ailments all over the world. NAFLD and hepatitis B and C play major roles in increasing the number of liver cirrhosis patients. It has been reported that 9% of the patients with liver disease in India suffer from NAFLD3.

Experts say that the changing food habits is one of the most important reasons for this. Over-consumption of processed food and fast food can dangerously affect the functioning of the liver and also the overall health of a person.

One suffers from fatty liver disease when excess fat gets deposited in the liver. NAFLD can be efficiently treated if it is detected in the early stages itself. Besides medication, the patients should also follow a healthy diet, regulate their body weight and give up alcohol for speedy recovery. NAFLD usually do not show any visible symptoms, hence making it extremely dangerous.

Doctors say that one can easily keep away NAFLD by making changes in the daily diet.

Green vegetables

Green vegetables like broccoli, cabbage and spinach prevent the building up of excessive fat in the liver.

Oatmeal

Oatmeal, which is a storehouse of fibre, is an incredible source of energy.

Sunflower oil

It is rich in vitamin E and antioxidants which protect the liver.

Garlic

Garlic not only protects the liver but also helps in shedding those extra kilos.

Fish

The omega 3 fatty acids in fish is excellent to safeguard the health of your liver.