People with fatty liver disease often don't know they have a fatty liver --- most people are asymptomatic or have mild symptoms, such as fatigue or abdominal pain. Fatty liver disease may be caused by certain medications, such as synthetic estrogen, the anti-inflammatories prednisolone and hydrocortisone, or tamoxifen, used to treat breast cancer. If your fatty liver is not caused by alcoholism, drug interactions, hepatitis or pregnancy, you may be able to treat fatty liver disease with diet and lifestyle changes.
Hypertriglyceridemia
Having high triglyceride levels may cause fatty liver disease. Following a diet to lower your triglycerides may help treat a fatty liver. The American Heart Association recommends eating unsaturated fats, such as olive or canola oil, rather than saturated fats, such as butter or lard. Other ways to lower triglyceride levels include maintaining a healthy body weight; eating fruits, vegetables and fish high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, mackerel, herring, sardines and anchovies; and reducing alcohol consumption.
Insulin Resistance
Type 2 diabetes is closely associated with fatty liver disease. Controlling your blood sugar levels and reducing insulin resistance may reverse fatty liver disease. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases recommends following a low-fat diet, rich in whole grains and high in fiber with a variety of vegetables daily. Choose lean protein and limit sweets, including natural sugars in fruits and dairy.
Healthy Lifestyle Choices
Make healthy lifestyle choices by limiting or avoiding alcohol and drugs. Protect your liver by not adding the extra stress of having to detoxify. Also avoid pesticides and pollutants. Exercise at least 30 minutes a day five days a week and incorporate more physical activity into your day; take the stairs rather than the elevator and walk instead of driving.
