As obesity becomes a larger concern in the United States and around the world, problems stemming from having excess fat in the liver is becoming a major health concern. Studies show that around one in four people have this emerging disease, which is linked to obesity and type 2 diabetes.

If caught early enough, it is reversible, but detection is key, as otherwise, a fatty liver can lead to severe liver disease.

Kingston Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing has details on what fatty liver disease is and how you can reverse the trend if you or someone you love is dealing with it.

What is Fatty Liver?

A liver is considered to have too much fat if tests show that more than 5% of it is fat. In the past, alcohol abuse was linked to liver disease, but this is generally not the case, as it has more to do with diet and lack of insulin production. The wide-spread term for this condition is non-alcoholic liver disease (NAFLD). This can progress to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and then cirrhosis and even liver cancer.

NAFLD Warning Signs

You’re at risk for NAFLD if you’re obese, have excess belly fat despite being at a more normal weight, have an insulin resistance, eating lots of empty carbohydrates like white bread and white rice, and drinking lots of sugary beverages. Symptoms include fatigue and weakness, slight pain or a feeling of fullness in the right or center abdomen, and elevated liver-enzyme, insulin, and triglyceride levels.

How to Reverse the Trend

If detected early enough, you can reverse the process through an improved diet and increased exercise. Studies show that losing just 8% of your body weight can lead to a significant decrease in your fatty liver percentages. You’ll also want to cut out refined carbs, red meat, saturated and trans fats, and anything with added sugar or high fructose corn syrup.

Cardio exercises also help people lose weight, so walking, jogging, biking, or swimming are great ways to get your heart pumping and shed some pounds at the same time. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise at least five times per week. Find something you enjoy doing and stick with it for the long haul.

To learn more about Kingston Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing and all of the services they offer, visit http://kingston-center.facilities.centershealthcare.org/.