Fatty liver disease is becoming increasingly common due to changing lifestyles. Once considered a problem primarily affecting the elderly, it is now seen in young adults and even children. Early stages of fatty liver often show no clear symptoms, but if left untreated, it can lead to serious complications like cirrhosis, liver failure, or liver cancer. While many believe obesity is the main cause, experts say there are several other factors that can lead to fatty liver, even in people who are not overweight.

What is Fatty Liver?

Professor LS Ghotkar from Lady Hardinge Hospital explains that fatty liver occurs when excess fat accumulates inside liver cells, disrupting its normal function. Over time, this fat buildup can damage the liver. Symptoms may include abdominal pain (especially on the right side), loss of appetite, fatigue, and general weakness. Anyone experiencing these signs should seek medical advice promptly.

Causes of Fatty Liver Beyond Obesity

While obesity has traditionally been linked to fatty liver, cases are now emerging in people with normal or low body weight. Here are other significant causes:

• Diabetes:
  People with type-2 diabetes are at higher risk because uncontrolled blood sugar causes inflammation and fat buildup in the liver. Managing blood sugar levels carefully can reduce this risk.

• Excessive Alcohol Consumption:
  Drinking too much alcohol damages liver cells directly and promotes fat accumulation, increasing the chances of cirrhosis and liver cancer over time.

• Spicy and Oily Foods:
  Frequently consuming oily, spicy, or fast foods rich in unhealthy fats can harm liver health.

• Thyroid and Hormonal Disorders:
  Conditions affecting thyroid hormones can slow down metabolism and cause fat to accumulate in the liver.

• Side Effects of Certain Medications:
  Drugs like steroids, aspirin, chemotherapy agents, and corticosteroids can contribute to fatty liver. Always take such medicines under medical supervision.

• Family History:
  A family history of fatty liver increases your susceptibility to the disease.

• Pregnancy:
  Fatty liver can sometimes develop during the late stages of pregnancy.

• Lack of Physical Activity:
  Sedentary lifestyles slow down metabolism and digestion, leading to fat buildup in the liver.

How to Protect Your Liver?

• Maintain a balanced diet low in oily and processed foods.

• Manage blood sugar levels if diabetic.

• Limit or avoid alcohol consumption.

• Regularly exercise or engage in physical activities.

• Monitor thyroid and hormonal health with regular check-ups.

• Consult a doctor before starting or stopping any medication.

• Stay alert to early symptoms and seek timely medical advice.