Fatty liver, also called steatosis, is caused by a fat build up within liver cells. In this benign condition, excess fat deposition does not cause liver damage. Rarely, patients develop deep jaundice. Steatosis is often an alcohol-induced disorder. Other triggers that can lead to a fatty liver include poor diet, diabetes, obesity, drug overdose and toxic chemical poisonings. A pharmaceutical composition containing vitamins has been shown to reverse fatty liver, but more research is needed.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E may have a significant effect on nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, which occurs in people who drink little or no alcohol, according to an article published by Saint Louis University. Epidemiological studies have shown a link between nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and oxidative stress, a condition in which antioxidant levels are lower than normal. Vitamin E is a potent antioxidant that captures and neutralizes harmful free radicals, or highly reactive molecular fragments, in a range of oxidative situations, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
B Vitamins
Fatty liver disease can be caused by deficiencies of folate or vitamin B12. Methionine synthase, a B12-dependent enzyme, is involved in the removal of the metabolite homocysteine. Epidemiological studies have shown that elevated homocysteine levels constitute a risk factor for fatty liver disease, reports the "American Journal of Gastroenterology." The activity of methionine synthase can be enhanced several fold by supplementation with its cofactor B12, which helps protect against fatty liver.
Lifestyle and Home Remedies
Initial treatment for fatty liver disease must focus on lifestyle modifications and the reversal of underlying conditions, such as alcohol abuse, diabetes and obesity. A healthy diet and exercise keep your calories in balance and weight in check. You can control diabetes through a variety of methods, such as a low-fat vegan diet, medications and insulin therapy. High doses of many drugs can cause fatty liver disease, so always consult with your health care provider if you are considering taking any over-the-counter medications.
References
- Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center: Fatty Liver
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services: Vitamin E Helps Treat Common Liver Disease
- Saint Louis University: Vitamin E Helps Those With Fatty Liver Disease
- American Journal of Gastroenterology: Betaine: An Old Therapy for a New Scourge
- Mayo Clinic: Lifestyle and Home Remedies
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