How To Manage NAFLD Naturally and Successfully

One of the most common liver diseases, affecting 25% of the worldwide population, NAFLD most of the time goes undiagnosed until it’s too late. Here I will talk about its risk factors, symptoms, and how to manage NAFLD naturally and successfully.

Follow

Table of Contents

NAFLD stands for Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease, and it’s a condition in which excess fat builds up in the liver of people who drink little to no alcohol.

It is also called a fatty liver and can lead to inflammation and scarring of the organ. 

It’s common in people who are overweight or obese, have type 2 diabetes, or have high levels of fats, including cholesterol and triglycerides, in their blood.

If left untreated, it can progress to more serious liver problems such as cirrhosis, liver failure, and liver cancer.

Don’t have time? Pin this post for later!

NAFLD develops as a result of several factors, including:

• Overweight or obesity: Excess fat in the body leads to an increase in liver fat.
• Insulin resistance: People with insulin resistance have high levels of insulin in their blood, which can lead to fat accumulation in the liver.
• High cholesterol and triglycerides: High levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood can cause fat to build up in the liver.
• Metabolic syndrome: A group of conditions including insulin resistance, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol and triglycerides, which increase the risk of developing NAFLD.
• Rapid weight loss: Rapid weight loss can cause the liver to release large amounts of fat into the bloodstream, leading to fat accumulation in the liver.
• Certain medications: Some medications can lead to liver damage and fat accumulation in the liver.

It’s important to address the underlying causes of NAFLD in order to prevent or slow the progression of the disease. 

NAFLD Symptoms

NAFLD often has no symptoms in its early stages, but as the condition progresses, some people may experience the following symptoms:

• Fatigue: People with NAFLD may feel tired and weak.
• Abdominal pain: Pain in the upper right side of the abdomen can be a sign of liver inflammation.
• Nausea: Some people with NAFLD experience feelings of sickness or nausea.
• Loss of appetite: Some people with NAFLD may lose their appetite.
• Weight loss: Despite a loss of appetite, some people with NAFLD may lose weight due to fat accumulation in the liver.
• Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes can be a sign of liver damage.
• Itchy skin: Some people with NAFLD may experience itchy skin.

If you have any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor for a proper evaluation.

They can perform tests to determine if you have NAFLD and provide a treatment plan to manage the condition.

Early detection and management of NAFLD can help prevent or slow the progression of the disease.

How To Manage NAFLD Naturally

There is currently no cure for NAFLD, but it can be managed through lifestyle changes and dietary modifications.

Here are some ways to help improve NAFLD naturally:

• Weight loss: Losing weight can help reduce the amount of fat in the liver and improve liver function. Aim for a slow and steady weight loss of about 1-2 pounds per week.
• Healthy diet: Eating a diet that is low in saturated and trans fats, and high in fibre, fruits, and vegetables can help reduce liver fat and improve liver function. The ketogenic and Mediterranean diets have shown great potential to help manage NAFLD.
• Physical activity: Regular exercise can help you lose weight, improve insulin sensitivity, and reduce inflammation, which can help improve NAFLD. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity most days of the week.
• Limit sugar and simple carbohydrates: Foods that are high in sugar (especially fructose) and simple carbohydrates can increase insulin levels, which can contribute to NAFLD.
• Avoid alcohol: Alcohol can increase the risk of liver damage and make NAFLD worse. It’s best to avoid alcohol or limit consumption to moderate levels.
• Managing other health conditions: If you have other health conditions such as type 2 diabetes or high cholesterol, it’s essential to manage them effectively as they can contribute to the development and progression of NAFLD.

It’s advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before making any significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

They can monitor your condition and provide guidance and support on the best way to manage NAFLD.

Herbal Remedies For NAFLD

Some people use herbal remedies to help manage their NAFLD symptoms.

However, it’s important to note that the safety and effectiveness of herbal remedies for NAFLD may vary from person to person.

Here are some herbal remedies that people with NAFLD may use:

• Milk Thistle: Milk thistle is an herbal supplement that is thought to help protect the liver from damage and support liver function.
• Turmeric: Turmeric is a spice that contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Some people with NAFLD use turmeric to help reduce inflammation and improve liver function.
• Ginger: Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce liver inflammation and improve liver function in people with NAFLD.
• Dandelion: Dandelion is an herbal supplement to help support liver function and reduce inflammation.
• Artichoke: Artichoke is an herbal supplement that is thought to help improve liver function and reduce symptoms of NAFLD.

Final Thoughts

Talking to your doctor before starting any herbal remedies is important, as they may interact with medications you are taking or have other side effects.

Herbal remedies are not a substitute for medical treatment, and the best way to manage NAFLD is to follow a healthy diet and lifestyle and receive regular medical care.

Did you like it? Pin this post for later!

FAQs

Have I missed something? Let me know on Twitter!