Fatty liver, also known as hepatic steatosis, is a common condition in which excess fat accumulates in the liver. While some fat in the liver is normal, excessive fat can cause inflammation and damage to liver cells, leading to a range of health problems. Fatty liver is often asymptomatic and can go unnoticed for years, but if left untreated, it can progress to more serious conditions such as liver cirrhosis or liver cancer. Dr. Ivanina, a specialist in fatty liver repair in NYC, can help you with this condition.
Symptoms:
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Elevated liver enzymes (as detected by blood tests)
- Poor appetite
- Weight loss
- Jaundice (in rare cases)
- Ascites (accumulation of fluid in the abdomen, in advanced cases)
An Overlooked (Silent) Epidemic
Fatty liver disease (hepatic steatosis) is an increasingly common condition that affects up to 25-30% of the global population. Despite its prevalence, it often goes undetected or remains inadequately managed by healthcare providers. Many physicians either fail to catch early signs—such as mildly elevated liver enzymes—or dismiss them as insignificant. This can delay intervention and allow the condition to progress into more serious liver damage, including non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), cirrhosis, or even liver cancer.
A truly effective approach to managing fatty liver goes beyond simply monitoring liver enzymes. The key lies in a comprehensive, integrative strategy that targets the root causes rather than just the symptoms. The liver is a resilient organ, and with the right interventions, fatty liver can often be reversed before it leads to severe complications.
Personalized, Integrative Treatments
Managing fatty liver requires a personalized and integrative approach, incorporating:
- Diet: It is crucial to follow a whole-food, anti-inflammatory diet low in refined sugars, processed carbohydrates, and unhealthy fats. Instead, consume high-fiber vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats, and antioxidants to support liver function and fat metabolism.
- Exercise: Both aerobic and resistance training significantly reduce liver fat and improve insulin sensitivity. Even moderate activity—like walking 30 minutes a day—can help.
- Weight optimization: Sustainable weight loss of 5-10% of body weight can significantly reduce liver fat and inflammation.
- Intermittent fasting: Time-restricted eating has been shown to support liver detoxification, improve insulin sensitivity, and reduce overall fat accumulation.
- Targeted supplements: Certain nutrients, such as omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin E, and probiotics, have shown potential in supporting liver function and promoting fat metabolism.
- Lifestyle adjustments: Stress management, quality sleep, and reducing exposure to environmental toxins can help maintain overall liver health and prevent further damage.
Possible Causes:
- Alcohol consumption (alcoholic fatty liver)
- Obesity or being overweight (nonalcoholic fatty liver)
- Insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes
- High intake of sugar and fructose
- High intake of saturated and trans fats
- Rapid weight loss
- Certain medications (e.g. corticosteroids, tamoxifen)
- Viral hepatitis
- Autoimmune or inherited liver disease
- Metabolic disorders (e.g. Wilson’s disease, alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency)
Meet Dr. Ivanina
Dr. Elena Ivanina, a triple board-certified integrative gastroenterologist, is committed to transforming gut health through holistic approaches. With esteemed training from Tulane University and the New York College of Osteopathic Medicine, she champions natural remedies and preventive measures. Dr. Ivanina’s journey includes pioneering research on cancer prevention and earning an MPH from Columbia University. As the former Director of Neurogastroenterology & Motility at Lenox Hill Hospital and the current Director of the Center for Integrative Gut Health, she seamlessly integrates traditional and functional medicine, advocating for dietary changes as central to gut healing including specializing in fatty liver repair in NYC. Her expertise encompasses yoga and Ayurvedic medicine, shaping tailored treatments. Through Gut Love, she empowers individuals globally, fostering proactive approaches to gut wellness.
Fatty Liver FAQs
Can fatty liver disease be reversed?
Yes, fatty liver disease can often be reversed with lifestyle changes, such as losing weight, eating a healthy diet limiting foods like fructose and exercising regularly. Avoiding alcohol and managing underlying conditions like diabetes and high cholesterol are also crucial.
How can fatty liver disease be prevented?
Preventing fatty liver disease involves maintaining a healthy weight, following a balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits and whole grains, limiting fructose and refined sugars and carbohydrates, exercising regularly, avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, and managing conditions like diabetes and high cholesterol.
How is fatty liver disease diagnosed?
Fatty liver disease is typically diagnosed through blood tests that show elevated liver enzymes, imaging studies like ultrasound or MRI, and elastography. Biopsies can now be avoided in most cases. Once the diagnosis has been made you will get a personalized treatment plan for fatty liver repair in NYC with Dr. Ivanina.
What are the complications of fatty liver disease?
Complications of fatty liver disease can include liver inflammation (steatohepatitis), liver fibrosis (scarring), cirrhosis, liver failure, and an increased risk of liver cancer. It can also lead to cardiovascular disease and other metabolic disorders.
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