Many people see ‘Fatty Liver’ in the ultrasound scanning report during a health checkup, but they often do not take it seriously. However, the liver is a very patient organ that does not show its defects. It does not show any symptoms until the disease becomes serious. Here are the main causes of fatty liver and the various stages in which it affects the body:
1. 4 main stages of fatty liver (Stages of Fatty Liver):
Stage 1: Simple Fatty Liver (Grade 1 Fatty Liver): This is the initial stage where fat accumulates in the liver cells in a small amount. There are no symptoms or inflammation at this stage. It can be completely reversed (Reversible) with a proper diet.
Stage 2: Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH / Grade 2 & 3): This is a condition in which the liver cells become severely inflamed and swollen due to the accumulation of fat in the liver. At this stage, you may feel mild pain or discomfort in the upper right side of the abdomen.
Stage 3: Liver Fibrosis: This is the stage in which the liver cells are damaged due to chronic inflammation and thick scar tissue forms there. However, the liver can still perform its normal functions to some extent.
Stage 4: Liver Cirrhosis: This is the most dangerous final stage. Most of the good liver cells are destroyed and the liver completely shrinks and thickens. This is a condition in which the liver functions completely (Liver Failure).
2. 4 main villains that increase fat in the liver (Root Causes):
Artificial sweeteners containing fructose (High Fructose Corn Syrup): Only the liver can break down the sweetener ‘fructose’ contained in the soft drinks, packet juices, and bakery sweets that we drink. When excessive fructose is ingested, the liver quickly converts it into fat.
Late-night eating habits: Those who eat heavy foods (especially rice, gourd, and biryani) late at night and immediately go to bed do not burn these calories at all. This directly ends up as fat in the liver.
Smoking and other toxins: Smoking increases oxidative stress in the body and destroys the natural immunity of the liver. This can cause the disease to worsen rapidly in people with fatty liver.
Side effects of some medications: Some painkillers and steroids taken for a long time without a doctor’s prescription can affect the metabolism in the liver and cause fat accumulation.
Dietary changes to cleanse the liver:
Peanuts, nuts, and olive oil: Use coconut oil or olive oil in small quantities for cooking. Avoid fried and deep-fried foods completely.
Bitter vegetables: Pumpkin, cauliflower, broccoli, cabbage, and garlic are excellent foods that help in detoxification of the liver.
