Fatty liver, medically generally known as hepatic steatosis, is a prevalent and regarding situation characterised by the irregular accumulation of fats inside liver cells. This situation has change into more and more widespread in recent times and poses important well being dangers. Understanding the widespread causes of fatty liver is crucial for prevention and correct administration.

by Shifa Khan

Dr. D Rahul, Consultant, Medical Gastroenterologist, Hepatologist and Therapeutic Endoscopist, CARE Hospitals, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad says, “Obesity is a major contributing factor to the development of fatty liver. When an individual is overweight or obese, their body’s fat stores increase, and excess fat can also accumulate in the liver. This excessive fat deposition in the liver can lead to a condition called non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The prevalence of obesity in modern society has made NAFLD one of the most common liver disorders worldwide.”

The Western eating regimen, characterised by a excessive consumption of unhealthy fat, added sugars, and processed meals, performs a major position within the rising incidence of fatty liver. Consuming extreme energy and missing important vitamins can overload the liver’s skill to metabolize fat effectively, ensuing within the storage of fats inside liver cells.

“Insulin resistance is a condition in which the body’s cells become less responsive to insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. It is often associated with obesity and can lead to the development of type 2 diabetes. Insulin resistance and diabetes can contribute to fatty liver as insulin plays a crucial role in fat metabolism, and impaired insulin function can lead to fat accumulation in the liver,” says Dr. Rahul.

Alcohol abuse is a well-established explanation for fatty liver. Excessive alcohol consumption can result in alcoholic fatty liver illness (AFLD), which is characterised by fats accumulation within the liver cells. Even reasonable alcohol consumption could be detrimental to the liver and contribute to fatty liver in vulnerable people.

According to Dr. Rahul, “Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of conditions that includes obesity, high blood pressure, high blood sugar levels, and abnormal lipid profiles. People with metabolic syndrome are at an elevated risk of developing fatty liver due to the combined effects of these metabolic abnormalities on liver function.”

“Other contributing elements to fatty liver embody speedy weight reduction, sure drugs, viral hepatitis, and genetic predisposition. Additionally, sure medical situations, equivalent to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), may enhance the danger of fatty liver.