Fatty liver disease is a condition indicated by fat that accumulates in the liver in people who consume little or no alcohol. According to the Mayo Clinic, some who have fatty liver disease do not experience negative symptoms. Others develop scarring and inflammation that can range from mild to serious in nature. Various diets can help reduce or prevent symptoms of this disease.
Probiotic Diet
Experts at Johns Hopkins Medical Center suggest probiotics, healthy bacteria found in fermented foods and cultured dairy products, as a means of treating or preventing fatty liver disease. Probiotics are similar to healthy bacteria found in the body and useful in aiding digestion as well as disease and inflammation prevention. Yogurt, kefir, miso, sauerkraut and pickled cabbage are positive sources of probiotics. Some juices and other beverages are fortified with probiotics as well. Examine nutrition labels of food products to find out whether probiotics have been added. Incorporate a variety of these foods into your diet for optimal results.
Whole Foods Diet
Mayo Clinic health experts suggest a diet rich in whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains and healthy, unsaturated fats for those with fatty liver disease. Fruits, vegetables and whole grains are rich in vitamins and minerals, including antioxidants, which help support the body's immune system, and dietary fiber, which promotes regularity and appetite regulation. Processed foods, such as candy, white bread and potato chips, are low in nutrients and are associated with weight gain, which can exacerbate symptoms of fatty liver disease. Whole foods can aid in weight management, reduce inflammation and enhance overall physical wellness. Snack on fruits and vegetables and switch to 100 percent whole grain breads, cereals and pasta. Limit red meat, deep-fried foods and high-fat dairy products. Instead, choose modest amounts of plant-based, healthy fats, such as nuts, olive oil, canola oil or flax seeds. Incorporate a variety of fruits, vegetables and whole grains and healthy fats into your diet to reap most benefits.
Diabetes Diet
The Mayo Clinic also suggests balancing one's blood sugar as a means of treating fatty liver disease. Diabetes diets work to improve blood sugar balance and generally contain a variety of healthy foods. Diabetes diets also support healthy weight management, as blood sugar difficulties and excess weight increase risk for diabetic symptoms. A diabetes diet often depends upon an exchange system, which guides individuals in matters of foods types and portion control at each meal. Carbohydrate grams or portions are counted or restricted and high-glycemic foods, those that have a significant effect on blood sugar levels, are either avoided or balanced appropriately with a low-glycemic food. Some diabetes diets encourage low-glycemic foods choices overall, which consist of high fiber, nutrient-dense foods, including various fruits, non-starchy vegetables, whole grains and legumes. Diabetes diets encourage low-fat protein sources, such as beans, white-meat poultry and fish. If you struggle with fatty liver disease as well as blood sugar challenges, speak with your doctor about incorporating a diabetes-friendly diet as potential treatment for your condition.
