Treatment and prevention
CONVENTIONAL MEDICINE does not have a specific drug or treatment for this problem. However, the condition is largely prevented and often reversed by nutritional and lifestyle changes. These include: Weight loss: Losing weight with a nutritionally sound weight-loss programme will result in a significant reduction of excess fat in the liver. I have often used a low carbohydrate, cellular nutrition type programme, very effective in correcting this problem. Reversing truncal obesity is an essential part of any treatment plan. Control high blood sugar: This is also very important in managing this problem. A diet low in simple carbohydrates along with supplements like chromium, berberine, and the omega 3 fatty acids greatly improves blood sugar control. Antioxidant supplementation with vitamins A, C,E, selenium, alpha lipoic acid, coenzyme Q10, green tea and glutathione is important in protecting the liver cells. Detoxification programmes help relieve the toxic burden on an already compromised liver. The herb, milk thistle, is particularly useful in this regard. Alcohol and other liver toxins must be absolutely avoided. Soy products: Soybeans contain a form of phosphatidylcholine, which has been shown in some studies to halt the progress of liver damage in NAFLD.
So, if you have a spare tire, a love handle, or a beer belly, this may be a warning sign that you are on your way to developing a fatty liver. Remember, your life depends on your liver!