What Causes Fatty Liver Disease?

By: Medical Diagnostics Expert, Prolife Diagnostics Centre – Bhubaneswar

Fatty liver disease is becoming increasingly common in India, especially due to modern lifestyle changes. It occurs when excess fat builds up in the liver. While a small amount of fat is normal, too much can lead to liver inflammation and serious complications if left untreated.

Understanding Fatty Liver Disease

There are two main types of fatty liver disease:

Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD):
This is the most common type in India and occurs in people who drink little or no alcohol.
Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (AFLD):

Caused by heavy alcohol consumption, this type of fatty liver damages liver cells over time.

Common Causes of Fatty Liver Disease

Several factors can lead to fat accumulation in the liver:

1. Poor Diet & Obesity

Eating high-fat, high-sugar foods regularly can overload the liver with fat. Being overweight or obese significantly increases your risk.

2. Lack of Physical Activity

Sedentary lifestyle is a major contributor. Without regular movement, the body stores more fat — including in the liver.

3. Diabetes & Insulin Resistance

People with Type 2 diabetes or prediabetes often have fatty liver disease. Insulin resistance makes it harder for your liver to manage fat properly.

4. Excessive Alcohol Use

Even occasional heavy drinking can damage liver cells and lead to fatty liver over time.

5. Genetic Factors

A family history of liver disease or metabolic disorders can increase the chances, even in people who maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Symptoms of Fatty Liver Disease

Fatty liver often has no clear symptoms in the early stages, but you may notice:

Tiredness or fatigue
Mild abdominal discomfort (especially on the right side)
Unexplained weight gain
Elevated liver enzymes (discovered through blood tests)

If not managed early, fatty liver can progress to NASH (Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis) or liver cirrhosis, which are more serious conditions.

Can Fatty Liver Disease Be Reversed?

Yes, in many cases fatty liver disease can be reversed — especially in the early stages.

Here’s how:

1. Lifestyle Changes

Lose weight: Even 5-10% weight loss can reduce liver fat.
Healthy diet: Focus on vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins. Avoid sugar-sweetened beverages, fried foods, and refined carbs.
Exercise regularly: Aim for at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week.

2. Avoid Alcohol

Reducing or eliminating alcohol can dramatically improve liver health, especially in alcoholic fatty liver.

3. Regular Health Check-ups

Get liver function tests and imaging (like Ultrasound or FibroScan) done to track liver health. At Prolife Diagnostics Centre, Bhubaneswar, we offer advanced liver screening and counseling.

Why Early Detection Matters

Fatty liver can be silent for years. Routine health checkups and Liver Function Tests (LFT), Ultrasounds, or Blood Sugar Monitoring can help detect it early. Early detection = easier reversal

Final Thoughts

Fatty liver disease is a serious yet reversible condition — if caught early and managed well. At Prolife Diagnostics Centre, Bhubaneswar, we provide personalized screening and diagnostic solutions to help you monitor and protect your liver health.

If you or a loved one are concerned about liver health, don’t delay. Book your consultation or screening with us today.

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