New Delhi: The fatty liver occurs when an excess measure of fat is deposited in the liver leading to its enlarged size. There are two types of fatty liver conditions, namely, alcoholic and non-alcoholic. Non-alcoholic fatty liver occurs in people who do not consume alcohol. The reasons range from obesity, diabetes, food habits to certain medications.
Meanwhile, alcoholic fatty liver occurs due to excessive alcohol consumption. The condition makes the liver inactive and ineffective in processing nutrients and metabolizing fat. It may lead to fibrosis or cirrhosis.
Symptoms include fatigue, discomfort or pain in the right side of the upper abdomen especially after food intake in the early stage. In later stages, one may experience severe tenderness in the upper abdomen, loss of appetite, nausea, weakness, weight loss, abdominal distention (ascites), pale-coloured stools, muscle wasting, swelling in the legs and so on. Diet and Lifestyle expert Shlloka Joshii shares the details of food items, which can cut out the fatty liver condition:
Lemon: Squeeze half a lemon into a glass of warm water and drink it on an empty stomach every day, it helps in flushing out the toxins and improves the liver's health.
Papaya: Consume a bowl of papaya on an empty stomach, the enzymes present in papaya reduce the inflammation of the liver. It is a source of fiber, minerals, and antioxidants including vitamins A, C, and E.
Apples: Apples are a rich source of pectin, which helps cleanse the body and release toxins from the digestive system. Having an apple a day can prevent fatty liver. However, if you have Grade 2 or Grade 3 fatty liver, you can have up to three apples a day, one before each meal (breakfast, lunch, and dinner). Or apple cider vinegar: drink 20-40ml of Apple cider vinegar on an empty stomach.
Beetroots: Beetroots are known to stimulate bile juice and boost enzymatic activity as they are rich in vitamin C, carrying out similar functions. Carrots, rich in Vitamin A, help prevent liver disease and support the overall functions of the liver. Having 1 medium-sized beetroot or 1 medium-sized carrot per serving before food, as a salad, would be a good idea.
Green vegetables: High in chlorophyll and necessary antioxidants, green vegetables flush out toxins from the bloodstream and aid the liver. You can include healthy greens like spinach, green peas, okra, kale, broccoli, cauliflower, lettuce, etc., in your diet. We recommend consuming 100-150 grams of steamed or boiled vegetables before a meal, or they can be substituted for the meal itself.
(With inputs from IANS)
