Fatty liver is about 27% more common in people with diabetes and obesity, so use extreme caution if you have diabetes or obesity. This is because this condition is commonly seen in these vulnerable populations, so health experts warn patients to be vigilant and take responsibility for their liver health.
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Raosaheb Rathod, consultant gastroenterologist, hepatologist and therapeutic endoscopist at Medicover Hospitals, Navi Mumbai, revealed, “Currently, the risk of fatty liver disease is increasing as more people are getting diagnosed with it. . Fatty liver is a condition where excess fat accumulates on this organ. Also called steatosis, this condition occurs when more than 5-10 percent of the liver’s weight is made up of fat.
He highlighted –
- Reason for: Alcohol, diabetes, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, genetics and medications are some of the factors behind the occurrence of this condition.
- Prevalence of this condition: Fatty liver is a common condition in people and its prevalence is about 27% higher in individuals with diabetes and obesity. It can occur at all ages including childhood, with the highest prevalence being in the 40–50 years age group. Usually asymptomatic and detected incidentally on ultrasound during examination for other problems.
- Complications: Progressive fat accumulation causes liver cell damage and can lead to liver cirrhosis and liver cancer over time if not intervened on time. However, the most worrying thing is that even when people are diagnosed with fatty liver, they ignore it. This is just because they do not know its effects and believe that it is a common routine problem, which is not harmful – this is the biggest myth about fatty liver.
- Treatment: Doctors may prescribe medicine to manage diabetes and keep blood sugar levels under control. Exercise, balanced diet and weight management can help deal with this condition. Reduce alcohol, smoking and stay hydrated by drinking enough water. Follow the guidelines given by the expert and improve the quality of life
How can we prevent fatty liver disease?
Dr. Raosaheb Rathod suggested the following 5 tips –
• Avoid alcohol or sedentary lifestyle
• Strict control of diabetes or high cholesterol
• Exercise 30 -45 minutes most days
• Maintain BMI (Body Mass Index) around 23
• Avoid carbohydrate and fat rich food and eat healthy food.
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