Patient Education Series | Fatty Liver | Alexander Shapsis, MD

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Dr. Alexander Shapsis Gastroenterologist Brooklyn, NY

Dr. Alexander Shapsis is a gastroenterologist practicing in Brooklyn, NY. Dr. Shapsis specializes in the digestive system and its diseases that affect the gastrointestinal tract, which include organs from the mouth to the anus as well as liver disorders. Gastroenterology includes conditions such as hepatitis, peptic ulcer... more

Understanding Fatty Liver Disease

Fatty liver disease, also known as hepatic steatosis, is a condition characterized by the accumulation of excess fat in the liver cells. It is a growing health concern worldwide, often linked to lifestyle factors and other underlying health conditions.

Types of Fatty Liver Disease

There are two primary types of fatty liver disease:

  1. Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD): This form occurs in individuals who consume little to no alcohol. It is closely associated with obesity, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. NAFLD can progress to more severe liver damage, including non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), fibrosis, and cirrhosis.
  2. Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (AFLD): As the name suggests, AFLD is caused by excessive alcohol consumption. The liver processes alcohol, and overconsumption can lead to fat buildup, inflammation, and eventually liver damage.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

In its early stages, fatty liver disease often presents no symptoms, making it challenging to diagnose without medical testing. As the disease progresses, symptoms may include:

Diagnosis typically involves a combination of medical history evaluation, physical examination, blood tests, imaging studies like ultrasound or CT scans, and sometimes a liver biopsy.

Risk Factors

Several factors increase the risk of developing fatty liver disease:

  • Obesity: Excess body fat, particularly around the abdomen, is a significant risk factor.
  • Diabetes: Type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance are closely linked to fatty liver disease.
  • High Cholesterol and Triglycerides: Elevated levels of these lipids in the blood can contribute to fat accumulation in the liver.
  • Poor Diet: Diets high in refined sugars, saturated fats, and calories can promote liver fat deposition.
  • Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of physical activity is a known risk factor.

Treatment and Management

There is no specific medication for fatty liver disease, but lifestyle modifications can significantly improve liver health:

  • Weight Loss: Losing weight through a healthy diet and regular exercise can reduce liver fat.
  • Healthy Diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, and low in saturated fats, refined sugars, and alcohol is beneficial.
  • Exercise: Regular physical activity helps reduce liver fat and improve overall metabolic health.
  • Control of Underlying Conditions: Managing diabetes, cholesterol, and blood pressure can help prevent the progression of fatty liver disease.

Prevention

Preventing fatty liver disease involves maintaining a healthy lifestyle:

  • Adopt a balanced diet.
  • Engage in regular physical activity.
  • Limit alcohol consumption.
  • Regular health check-ups to monitor and manage risk factors.

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