Fatty Liver

Fatty liver, medically known as hepatic steatosis, occurs when excess fat accumulates in the liver. A small amount of fat in the liver can be normal, but excessive fat accumulation may affect liver function and, in some people, progress to inflammation and liver damage.

Fatty liver can occur due to alcohol consumption or factors unrelated to alcohol.

The two broad types are:

1. Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD): Fat accumulation associated with metabolic risk factors such as obesity, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol and high blood pressure.

2. Alcohol-associated liver disease: Fat accumulation related to excessive alcohol consumption.

Common risk factors include:

Overweight or obesity

Insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes

High cholesterol or triglyceride levels

High blood pressure

Poor dietary habits

Physical inactivity 

Excessive alcohol consumption

Certain medications or medical conditions

Many people with fatty liver have no noticeable symptoms, especially during the early stages.

When symptoms occur, they may include:

Tiredness or fatigue

Mild discomfort in the upper-right abdomen

General weakness

In advanced liver disease, symptoms such as jaundice, abdominal swelling or leg swelling may develop.

A healthcare professional may use:

Medical history and physical examination

Blood tests to assess liver enzymes and other metabolic markers

Ultrasound or other imaging tests

Fibrosis assessment tests when needed

Occasionally, a liver biopsy in selected cases

A healthcare professional may recommend additional tests to determine whether liver scarring or fibrosis is present.

Yes. Fatty liver does not always remain harmless. In some individuals, it can progress from simple fat accumulation to liver inflammation, fibrosis and eventually cirrhosis.

The risk of progression is higher in people with metabolic conditions such as obesity and diabetes.

Treatment mainly focuses on addressing the underlying cause and reducing liver fat and the risk of progression.

Important measures include:

Achieving gradual, sustainable weight loss when overweight

Following a balanced, nutrient-rich diet

Exercising regularly

Controlling blood sugar

Managing cholesterol and blood pressure

Avoiding or minimizing alcohol, depending on the individual's condition

Taking prescribed medications as advised by a healthcare professional

There is no single diet or supplement that can cure fatty liver. Avoid self-medicating or taking herbal supplements without medical advice.

A liver-friendly eating pattern generally emphasizes:

Vegetables and fruits in appropriate portions

Whole grains

Pulses and legumes

Nuts and seeds

Fish or other healthy protein sources

Low-fat or minimally processed foods

Healthy unsaturated fats

Sugary drinks

Sweets and desserts

Highly processed foods

Excess refined carbohydrates

Foods high in saturated and trans fats

Excess alcohol

Yes. Regular physical activity can improve insulin sensitivity, metabolic health and liver fat—even when significant weight loss has not yet occurred.

A combination of aerobic activity and strength training can be beneficial. The appropriate exercise plan depends on your health and fitness level.

In many people, especially when identified early, liver fat can be reduced through sustained lifestyle changes and management of associated conditions.

The possibility of reversal depends on the stage of liver disease and whether inflammation or significant fibrosis has developed.

Consult a healthcare professional if you:

Have abnormal liver-function test results

Have diabetes, obesity or high cholesterol

Have been diagnosed with fatty liver

Experience persistent abdominal discomfort or unexplained fatigue

Develop yellowing of the eyes or skin, abdominal swelling, vomiting blood or confusion

Fatty liver is common and may remain unnoticed for years. However, early identification, healthy eating, regular physical activity, weight management and control of associated medical conditions can help protect the liver and reduce the risk of progression.

Take care of your liver today—small lifestyle changes can make a meaningful difference to your long-term health.