Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)

See also : Fatty Liver Disease (FLD)
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the causes of fatty liver, occurring when fat is deposited (steatosis) in the liver due to other causes than excessive alcohol use. NAFLD is the most common liver disorder in Western industrialized nations. It includes a group of conditions that are characterized by varying levels of fat deposits in your liver cells. NAFLD ranges from steatosis (simple fatty liver), to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) which is fatty changes plus inflammation, to advanced fibrosis (excessive accumulation of extracellular proteins) and cirrhosis. Although simple fatty liver is considered benign, once chronic inflammation develops (NASH), then you can progress to fibrosis and eventually end-stage liver disease (needing a transplant). NAFLD has no signs or symptoms, and it’s often discovered unexpectedly through elevated liver enzymes on a blood test. It resembles alcoholic liver disease, the main difference being NAFLD is caused by factors other than excessive alcohol consumption.

Causes

• medications:
  • Amiodarone
  • Antiviral drugs (nucleoside analogues)
  • Aspirin rarely as part of Reye's syndrome in children
  • Corticosteroids
  • Methotrexate
  • Tamoxifen
  • Tetracycline
• Soft drinks : Soft drinks have been linked to NAFLD due to high concentrations of fructose, which may be present either in high-fructose corn syrup or, in similar quantities, as a metabolite of sucrose. The quantity of fructose delivered by soft drinks may cause increased deposition of fat in the abdomen.
• Genetics

Natural Remedies

• Get tested : If you’re concerned about NAFLD, ask your doctor to test your liver enzymes.
• Move your body : Nothing makes you shed excess pounds, burn fat, eliminate dangerous toxins and promote better health in all of your organs better than regular exercise. If you’re a couch potato or make every excuse under the sun to not exercise, kindly stop that now. Instead get your doctor’s OK and get moving.
• Eat real foods and stay away from HFCS : What's best for your body (and can help you live disease-free well into your golden years) is having a diet of REAL foods and avoiding processed and refined foods.
• Consider probiotic supplementation : Evidence is growing that links probiotic use with a decrease in fat accumulation in the liver. A new study published in September of 2014 in Food & Function revealed that the mechanism by which probiotics help reduce liver fat is twofold--they reduce the formation of new lipids (fats) and also increase the destruction of lipids that have already accumulated. Especially helpful in this area was the probiotic strain Lactobacillus plantarum--which is one of the 13 super strains in Super Shield multi-strain probiotic formula!
• Consider Milk Thistle supplementation : Milk thistle (silymarin) has been used since the 15th century for liver health. It helps detoxify the liver, stimulates the flow of bile and helps tone the liver, as well as its “partners” the gallbladder and spleen. Recommended dosage is 350-525 mg. of milk thistle per day with meals.

Medical Disclaimer

This information is not meant to be substituted for medical advice. Always consult a medical professional regarding any medical problems and before undertaking any treatment or dietary changes.