Understanding fatty liver

Fatty liver, a condition characterized by the accumulation of excess fat in the liver, poses significant health risks if left untreated. Shlloka Joshii, a Classical Hatha Yoga teacher and Diet and Lifestyle expert, sheds light on the two main types of fatty liver and offers dietary recommendations to manage the condition effectively.

Symptoms

Initially, individuals with fatty liver may experience fatigue or discomfort in the right side of the upper abdomen, particularly after meals. As the condition progresses, symptoms may escalate to severe tenderness in the upper abdomen, loss of appetite, nausea, weakness, weight loss, and abdominal swelling. Advanced stages of fatty liver may also manifest as pale-colored stools, muscle wasting, and swelling in the legs.

Causes

Fatty liver can stem from various factors, including excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and high cholesterol levels. Additionally, certain medications, genetic disorders, pregnancy, and infections such as hepatitis C can contribute to the development of fatty liver.

Dietary recommendations

Joshii recommends incorporating specific foods into the diet to alleviate fatty liver symptoms and promote liver health:

Lemon: Drinking warm water with lemon juice on an empty stomach aids in detoxification and enhances liver health.

Papaya: Consumption of papaya, rich in enzymes and antioxidants, reduces liver inflammation and provides essential nutrients.

Apples: Apples contain pectin, which aids in cleansing the body and releasing toxins. Individuals with fatty liver can consume up to three apples a day, preferably before each meal.

Beetroots and carrots: Beetroots stimulate bile production, while carrots rich in vitamin A support liver function. Including these vegetables in salads before meals promotes liver health.

Green vegetables: High in chlorophyll and antioxidants, green vegetables assist in toxin elimination and support liver detoxification. Steamed or boiled green vegetables can be consumed before meals or as meal substitutes.

Incorporating these dietary recommendations into daily routines can help manage fatty liver and promote overall liver health. However, individuals with advanced stages of the condition should consult healthcare professionals for personalized treatment plans.