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Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)

Accumulation of excess fat in the liver not caused by alcohol, which can lead to inflammation and liver damage.

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.

Overview

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a condition where excess fat accumulates in liver cells in people who drink little or no alcohol. It ranges from simple fatty liver (steatosis) to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which involves inflammation and can progress to cirrhosis.

NAFLD is now the most common liver disease worldwide, affecting an estimated 25% of the global population. It's closely linked to metabolic syndrome, obesity, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes.

The condition often has no symptoms until advanced stages. Most people are diagnosed incidentally through elevated liver enzymes on routine blood tests or imaging showing fatty liver. Early detection and lifestyle intervention can reverse the condition.

Common Symptoms

  • •Often no symptoms (silent condition)
  • •Fatigue
  • •Discomfort or pain in the upper right abdomen
  • •Enlarged liver (found on examination)
  • •Advanced stages may show:
  • •Abdominal swelling
  • •Enlarged blood vessels under the skin
  • •Red palms
  • •Yellowing of skin and eyes (jaundice)
  • •Easy bruising

Key Blood Markers

ALT (Alanine Transaminase)

Mildly elevated (1-3x normal)

The most sensitive liver enzyme for fatty liver - often mildly elevated

AST (Aspartate Transaminase)

Mildly elevated, usually less than ALT

Usually lower than ALT in fatty liver (AST:ALT ratio <1)

GGT (Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase)

Often elevated

Often elevated in fatty liver - sensitive marker of liver stress

Triglycerides

Often elevated

Strongly associated with fatty liver and metabolic dysfunction

HbA1c

Often elevated or pre-diabetic range

Insulin resistance and diabetes are major drivers of NAFLD

Frequently Asked Questions

Can fatty liver be reversed?
Yes! Early-stage fatty liver is highly reversible with lifestyle changes. Weight loss of 7-10% can resolve fatty liver and even NASH. Exercise, diet changes, and managing metabolic conditions are key.
What liver enzyme levels indicate fatty liver?
ALT is typically 1-3x the upper limit of normal in fatty liver. However, up to 25% of people with fatty liver have normal ALT. Imaging (ultrasound or FibroScan) is often needed for diagnosis.
Does fatty liver always progress to serious liver disease?
No. Simple fatty liver (steatosis) often remains stable. About 20-30% progress to NASH, and of those, about 20% develop significant fibrosis over 10-20 years. Lifestyle intervention dramatically reduces progression risk.
What is the best diet for fatty liver?
Mediterranean diet has the most evidence. Reduce refined carbs and sugars, avoid fructose (especially high fructose corn syrup), increase fiber and vegetables, include healthy fats. Coffee (2-3 cups daily) appears protective.

Quick Facts

  • Key Markers:5
  • Common Symptoms:10

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