Fatty liver disease is characterized by an accumulation of fat in the liver. For most people, it does not cause any symptoms and will not lead to any complications. In some people however, the excess fat can lead to tissue scarring, inflammation and possibly liver failure. Luckily, treatment consists of simple self-care measures that will not only benefit your condition but your overall health as well.
Talk to your doctor about your current medications. In some cases, drugs can contribute to fatty liver. You might be able to alter doses or switch medications.
Maintain a healthy weight. If you are overweight, ask your doctor for assistance in designing a weight loss program if past efforts have been unsuccessful. Healthy weight loss is considered one to two pounds weekly.
Eat right. Increase your consumption of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Reduce your intake of saturated fats, which are found in animal products and anything made with them. Choose healthy fats like olive and canola oil, nuts, seeds and cold-water fish. Keeping your cholesterol down is very important for managing fatty liver. Lifestyle changes are usually the first line of defense, but if you find they are not working, medications can help. This does not exempt you, however, from making necessary adjustments to your diet.
Exercise regularly. Thirty minutes of moderate activity several days a week is optimal. If you have not been working out regularly, talk to your doctor about designing an exercise program that will allow you to start off slowly and eventually work up to the recommended amount.
Be diligent about monitoring any other health conditions you have. Take all medications as directed and adhere to recommended self-care strategies. If you are diabetic, carefully monitor your blood sugar.
Promote liver health. Avoid alcohol and take all medications as directed. Many drugs, even over-the-counter ones like Tylenol, can promote liver damage if used improperly or in excess. Ask your doctor for advice on what kinds of medicines you should avoid.