Fatty Liver And Liver Cancer Risk: Fatty liver disease, recently known as metabolic dysfunction associated steatotic liver disease, has become one of the fastest growing health problems in the world today. What was once considered a minor problem is now emerging as a serious threat. According to reports, one out of every three adults in the world is affected by this disease. This problem occurs due to excessive accumulation of fat in the liver and no specific symptoms are visible in the initial stages. But if left untreated, it can take the form of liver swelling, cirrhosis and even cancer.

Why is this a silent killer?

According to MD Anderson Cancer Center of America, MASLD can later turn into a serious condition called MASH i.e. Metabolic Dysfunction Associated Steatohepatitis. At this stage, inflammation and cell damage occurs in the liver, due to which the risk of liver fibrosis and hepatocellular carcinoma increases manifold. The biggest concern is that most patients do not realize it until serious damage to the liver has occurred.

Habits make fatty liver more dangerous

According to doctors and nutrition experts, some everyday habits spoil fatty liver. In these-

poor diet

Excess sugar, refined carbohydrates and ultra-processed foods like cold drinks, chips, biscuits and fast food increase fat rapidly in the liver. Experts recommend adopting a Mediterranean diet, which includes vegetables, whole grains, nuts, olive oil and fish. This diet is considered helpful in reducing liver fat.

bad lifestyle

Sitting for long periods of time and lack of physical activity weakens the liver’s ability to process fat. Doctors recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise a week. Taking the stairs instead of the lift or walking while talking on the phone can also be beneficial.

pre-existing diseases

Obesity, type-2 diabetes and high cholesterol can make fatty liver serious rapidly. This risk can be reduced to a great extent by weight control, good sleep and regular medical checkups.

What signs to keep an eye on?

Fatty liver is called a ‘silent disease’ because its symptoms are not clearly visible. Still, there may be some signs like persistent fatigue, mild discomfort in the right upper part of the stomach, increase in liver enzymes in routine tests or enlargement of the liver in the scan. Doctors say that high-risk people must undergo regular screening.
The good thing is that fatty liver can be cured to a great extent in the initial stages. By reducing just 5 to 10 percent of body weight, a significant improvement in liver fat has been seen. According to many researches, drinking coffee can also reduce its risk, because the antioxidants present in it benefit the liver.

Also read: How dangerous is listening to loud music while driving, know what experts say?

Disclaimer: This information is based on research studies and expert opinion. Do not consider this as a substitute for medical advice. Before adopting any new activity or exercise, please consult your doctor or relevant specialist.

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