Fatty liver disease is a condition in which excess fat accumulates in your liver. There are two main types: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and alcoholic fatty liver disease.
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease does not derive from alcohol use. There are two forms of NAFLD.
It can be a simple form of the condition, where there is fat accumulation, but not enough to cause inflammation or liver damage. There’s also a more serious form of fatty liver that does cause inflammation and damage in the liver cells. This condition can cause scarring of the liver and can lead to liver cancer.
Alcoholic fatty liver disease is associated with alcohol consumption. As the liver metabolizes the alcohol, it produces toxic substances that damage liver cells, create inflammation, and weaken your body’s immune function. Alcoholic fatty liver disease can progress to cirrhosis of the liver.
HOW CAN 360 MEDICAL WEIGHT SPECIALISTS HELP?
In addition to overconsumption of alcohol, poor lifestyle choices directly contribute to fatty liver disease. Research shows that excess intake of carbohydrates produces fat in your belly and liver. Dr. Gartner and the experts at 360 Medical Weight Specialists work directly with you to customize a low-carb, anti-inflammatory diet to combat the progression of fatty liver disease, and help you lose weight, if needed.
WHAT CAUSES FATTY LIVER DISEASE?
The non-alcoholic form of fatty liver disease tends to occur more often in people who are obese. It mainly affects adults, although more children are being diagnosed with it than in the past. Although the specific cause of NAFLD is unknown, it tends to be common in people who have:
- High cholesterol or triglycerides
- High blood pressure
- Type 2 diabetes or metabolic syndrome
- Used certain drugs, such as corticosteroids and some cancer drugs
- Certain infections, such as hepatitis C
- Lost weight too quickly
- Exposure to certain toxins
On the other hand, alcoholic fatty liver disease only occurs in people who drink too much alcohol, particularly those who have been drinking for many years.
