Can fatty liver be cured by massaging index finger? Fact check

When your liver says 'I will take fat to-go, thanks,' it's time for you to worry about the sneaky condition of fatty liver, according to a popular social media meme. From unexplained weight changes and abdominal discomfort to elevated liver enzymes, fatty liver disease starts all these problems in your body silently, at least for a while. Thanks to our lifestyle, it's common even among youngsters these days. Recently, an Instagram video has been doing the rounds on the internet, claiming that massaging the lower part of the index finger could cure fatty liver.
Besides, the video also claims that this acupuncture technique can improve digestion, metabolism and blood circulation. Alcoholic and non alcoholic are the two types of fatty liver diseases. The technique suggested in the video is similar to an acupuncture method. Does it hold any merit? Here's what we found:

How bad is fatty liver?
A simple Liver Function Test (LFT) could show the extent of the condition in both types of fatty liver. In case of any abnormalities, doctors may suggest medication for 6 – 12 months. Fatty liver may be caused by obesity, high fat diet, alcoholic addiction, insulin resistance, high cholesterol and chemical exposure. A balanced diet, regular exercise and stress management are needed to treat fatty liver.
Experts say that fatty liver condition could be controlled by losing up to 5 – 7 percentage of body weight. A research study conducted in 2021, on 1320 patients showed a positive impact on non alcoholic fatty liver and lipid profiles. However, the report recommends extensive studies to confirm the effectiveness of acupuncture treatment related to fatty liver disease.

Treatment
Problems associated with fatty liver could be treated or reversed by improving your lifestyle. Dr. Tejaswini Tumma, consultant gastroenterologist and therapeutic endoscopist at the Kamineni Hospitals in Telangana says that it is better to seek the service of a healthcare provider rather than self treatment for fatty liver issues. Alcoholic and non alcoholic fatty liver could be cured or reversed based on the stage of condition.
Medical experts suggest giving up alcohol and smoking, reducing body weight and following a healthy diet for curing fatty liver although there is no specific treatment available for the condition. Besides, the doctors also prescribe medicines for diabetes, cholesterol and vitamin E supplements.

Fact
Based on available information, the claim that fatty liver disease could be cured by massaging the lower part of the index finger is false and misleading.
Information courtesy: An article published in Newsmeter which is part of the Shakti Collective, formed to fight fake news.