Is there Natural Remedies For Fatty Liver ?
There are many natural remedies for fatty liver disease, however, most of them work if the condition is diagnosed in the early stage itself.
Hers are some natural home remedies to reverse fatty liver disease.
Fatty Liver Disease – What is it exactly?
Fatty liver disease is a condition when there is abnormal accumulation of fat in liver. This condition can arise due to excessive alcohol intake or excessive calories intake. In both conditions the excess fat accumulates in the liver – forming fat globules which can easily become the nucleus for calcification in later stage.
Its common knowledge that the liver is largest gland in human body and the second largest organ. Its primary job is to process nutrients from food and drinks and filter harmful substances from your blood.
Fatty liver disease in humans is also called Hepatic steatosis. 25% of the global population is diagnosed with fatty liver disease.
Fat from the food you eat needs to pass through liver to be digested, however when the fat content exceeds the threshold level, the gland begins to leave a portion of fat undigested which then begins to accumulate – developing into fatty liver.
What are the causes of Fatty Liver Disease?
Fat accumulates in liver due to several reasons. This accumulation involves
- Increase in free fatty acids (FFAs) in the liver
- Decrease in oxidation of FFA
- Increase in synthesis of fatty acids in liver
- decrease in secretion of very- low-density-lipoprotein [1]
- Oxidative stress in the hepatocytes can activate stellate cells and lead to the production of collagen and inflammation.
Factors that may contribute to fatty liver include
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The use of medications (e.g., tamoxifen, amiodarone, methotrexate)
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Metabolic abnormalities (e.g., glycogen storage disorders, homocystinuria)
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Alcohol
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Nutritional status (e.g., total parenteral nutrition, severe malnutrition, overnutrition, or a starvation diet)
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Other health issues like Wilson disease and celiac sprue.
What are the types of fatty liver disease?
There are two types of Fatty liver disease
1. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and
2. Alcoholism induced fatty liver disease called alcoholic steatohepatitis.
What are the symptoms of fatty liver disease?
1.Fatigue and tiredness
2.Gastrointestinal disorders
3. A blood test may show
• Increased liver enzymes like ALT and AST
• Elevated insulin level
• Increase in Triglyceride levels
4. Nausea accompanied by loss of appetite
6.Edema in lower limbs
7.Jaundice – Skin, and whites of the eye’s changes to yellow
8.Constant dull abdominal pain in the right upper part of the belly
What is the good news about the cure for Fatty liver disease?
Fatty liver disease is reversible when diagnosed at earlier stages. Adopt good healthy diet habits and physical activity can help to treat the disease.
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What are the complications of Fatty liver disease?
Nonalcoholic Fatty liver in its initial stages (NAFL) is curable. Still, the disease must be diagnosed earlier before its prognosis to the next stage of the disease called non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, or NASH. Fatty liver disease by alcoholism has the same disease prognosis as nonalcoholic Fatty liver disease. Early diagnosis is a critical factor for recovery from fatty liver disease.
Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is the severe accumulation of fat in liver cells. This inflammation is called liver cirrhosis. Liver Cirrhosis hampers the liver functions and will lead to cancer and liver failure. Fatty liver disease complications include cardiovascular disease, diabetes, jaundice, gastrointestinal diseases, and kidney diseases.
Important home remedy for Fatty Liver Disease
1.Green Tea
Green tea is rich in plant-based component catechins. Catechins are antioxidants and help liver crisis like Fatty liver disease. Epigallocatechin-3-gallate is a type of catechin and is more predominantly in green tea.
Epigallocatechin-3-gallate binds with free radicals and prevents human cell interaction, hence maintains healthy liver cells or tissues. If untreated free radicals bind with an electron in healthy human cells, causing a shift in cell activity leading to inflammation and cell damage.
Green tea detoxifies liver and flushing out fat deposits, causing fatty liver disease. Green tea is an excellent beverage and a home remedy for Fatty liver disease. Green tea has other benefits on body metabolism and controls obesity.
2.Turmeric
Turmeric is known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. The polyphenol curcumin can detoxify the liver and cleanses the liver of its toxins. Improve liver health by including turmeric in most of the curries.
Turmeric adds flavour and color to the recipes and additionally boosts body immunity. There are turmeric supplements available at the pharmacy. Talk to your doctor about turmeric supplements and its side effects. Many research studies show turmeric as a home remedy for fatty liver disease because of the ability to reduce cholesterol and prevent the risk of fatty liver disease.
3.Flaxseed
Flaxseed is rich in omega-three fatty acids. Flaxseed reduces blood cholesterol level. Flaxseed prevents fat deposits in the liver and to cure patients diagnosed with fatty liver disease.
Flaxseed promotes a healthy gut, reduces constipation and obesity. Eat flaxseed for a healthy liver and reduces triglyceride in blood. Flaxseed is less expensive and healthy way to treat fatty liver disease. Oatmeal with flax seed and fruits is an excellent breakfast and awesome liver cleanser recipe for busy mornings.
4.Cinnamon
Cinnamaldehyde, flavonoids, and coumarin are the active ingredients in cinnamon. These essential oils are responsible for the flavour and smell of cinnamon spice. They are also linked to reduce liver cell inflammation, the proper function of liver enzymes, reduce fat deposition in the liver, and maintain insulin levels.
When insulin in blood level increases, the fat accumulation in liver cells also increases. The insulin rise will also cause an increase in free radicals. So, these free radical causes oxidative stress, inflammation of the liver, and damaging liver health, hence cinnamon as a home remedy for fatty liver disease helps maintain sugar level in blood. Hence, Cinnamon has a significant role in liver health.
5.Honey
Honey and its role to cure fatty liver disease are significant because it helps maintain the glycogen storage level in liver cells. When glycogen level decreases, the liver come under oxidative stress and affect glucose metabolism.
Honey causes increased insulin resistance, and disturbing glucose metabolism leads to fatty liver disease. Honey has more fructose and sucrose and is an excellent alternative to white sugar. Honey is also an antioxidant and helps to maintain a healthy gut. Patients suffering from obesity and diabetes must refrain from honey intake as it may aggravate the existing medical conditions.
6.Amla or Indian Gooseberry
Amla or Indian Gooseberry is a citrate source rich in vitamin C and antioxidants like ellagic acid, gallic acid, gallotanin, and corilagin. Amla boosts body immunity, removes toxins of liver cells, and prevents inflammation of liver cells due to fat and alcohol deposits.
In Ayurveda, amla is the main ingredient in Triphala churna preparation. This ayurvedic medication helps in treat Fatty liver disease and cleanse liver cells. Take raw berries, juice or add as an amla ingredient in recipes.
7.Lemon water or juice
Lemon is a source of vitamin C and an antioxidant. Consume freshly squeezed lemon juice in the morning before breakfast found to detoxify the liver and prevent the degeneration of liver cells. Lemon juice or lemon water regulates liver cell activity and its metabolism, thus maintain a healthy liver.
They also keep a check on the amount of sugar and cholesterol in blood levels by controlling its absorption. Perfect level of sugar and cholesterol level in the blood will prevent the liver from getting overburdened in removing toxins from the body.
Lemon water is the best home remedy for Fatty liver disease, and it also cures other gastrointestinal related disorders. Lemon water in the morning increases body immunity and known for good cardiac health.
8.Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid and polyphenolic compounds. Apple cider vinegar is best in removing fat deposits and decreases inflammation in the liver. 2 tablespoons of Apple cider vinegar mixed one glass of lukewarm water can be taken two times a day before meals.
Add honey as a natural sweetener and blood purifier. This home remedy for fatty liver cleanses the liver cells and maintains insulin level in blood. Take apple cider vinegar for two months for full recovery from Fatty liver disease.
9.Aloe Vera juice
Aloe Vera is rich in antioxidant and plant-based polyphenols. In Ayurveda, Aloe Vera juice is called Kumari Asava is prescribed to cleanse the liver of toxins and free radicals. They do have other benefits, which include increasing body immunity, cardiac health, gastrointestinal health, and skincare.
Aloe vera gel (gelatinous material between 2 thick outer layers of the leaf) can be scrapped from leaves and mixed with little neem leaf juice. This preparation is taken once in a day as a home remedy for fatty liver disease and for maintaining good liver health.
10.Papaya, kiwi, and celery
Papaya, kiwi, and celery contain active ingredient pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ). PQQ prevents and cures the nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Papaya, kiwi, and celery can be prepared as a smoothie and consumed once a day as home remedies for fatty liver disease.
A bowl of sliced papaya, kiwi, or celery will prevent the progression of the disease by getting rid of toxicity in the liver. This energy-packed smoothie on days you hit the gym will compensate for water loss and cleanse the body of its toxins.
11.Olive oil
Olive oil is the best cooking oil for liver health and contains omega-three fatty acid and monosaturated fatty acid. Extra virgin olive oil is more abundant in nutritional benefits and food fix for liver diseases. Extra virgin olive oil increases the bile production and enhances its flow; this way liver gets cleansed of its toxins.
Antioxidants and a replacement for fat intake make olive oil an excellent home remedy for fatty liver disease. Take one tablespoon of olive oil blended with 150 ml of lemon juice taken in the evening after 12 hours before food. Consume more water and green vegetables to flush toxins of liver cells.
12.Milk Thistle
Milk Thistle, also called silymarin, is a medicinal herb in treating liver diseases. They have been used as alternative medicine in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease for over 2000 years. Milk Thistle with vitamin E source can prevent degeneration and inflammation of liver cells.
Milk Thistle, as a home remedy for fatty liver disease. It also improves liver functions and maintains the level of liver enzymes. Some prescription drug and diabetic medication may also interfere with milk thistle, so consult your doctor about Milk Thistle, side effects, and interactions with prescription drugs.
13.Garlic
Garlic is an antimicrobial spice and lowers blood cholesterol level in blood. When fat food intake increases, the liver gets overburdened to maintain healthy levels of cholesterol in the body. This stress conditions on the liver cause fat deposition in liver cells, and this advances as inflammation of liver or liver diseases.
Studies show garlic contains allicin an active ingredient; allicin can reverse damage caused by alcohol on liver cells. This antioxidant also lowers VLDL (very low-density lipoprotein). When VLDL increases in liver cells, it advances as fatty liver disease. Garlic’s allicin is a Sulphur containing compound is also an antiseptic and an anti-inflammatory remedy for fatty liver disease.
14.Buttermilk
Buttermilk is an excellent alternative to whole milk because buttermilk is low in fat and rich in probiotics. On comparing a cup of buttermilk and milk, buttermilk has only 2 grams of fat, and whole milk contains 9 grams of fat. High-fat content in milk is no good for liver health and in patients diagnosed with fatty liver disease.
Buttermilk is rich in vitamins like riboflavin, which helps in detox liver and maintains healthy liver functions. Buttermilk as a home remedy for fatty liver disease is rich in proteins and calcium essential for stronger bones and muscles. The daily requirement of riboflavin by the human body is 377 micrograms. About 1 cup of buttermilk is enough for satisfy body daily riboflavin needs.
15.Tofu
Tofu a soy product is rich in protein and low in fat. Tofu is low fat diet and hence causes less stress on the liver. A recent study has found tofu can also ease symptoms caused by liver disease. Add tofu in daily recipes like salads or curries for treating fatty liver disease.
16.Marine food, Nuts, and Avocado
Salmon, sardines, tuna, and trout are a source of omega-three fatty acids and antioxidants. Omega 3 fatty acids prevent the accumulation of fat deposits in liver cells and their degeneration due to fatty liver disease. Benefits of marine food, Nuts, and Avocado in the diet for fatty liver disease
• Increases insulin sensitivity
• Decreases inflammation
• Decreases lipid level in blood serum
• Lowers blood pressure
• Increases fat acid oxidation
• Prevents liver cell degeneration
17.Vegetables
All vegetables are an excellent home remedy for fatty liver disease, especially cauliflower, spinach, broccoli, cucumber, and all crucifers are significant food fixes to detoxify the liver. Keep your recipe less oily, less spicy, and low in salt.
A high sodium diet is not a healthy choice for the fatty liver; it creates more stress to the liver, in a crisis. Sauted vegetables and fresh green salad with a sprinkle of lemon juice will alkalize the body and help in liver functions.
18.Ayurvedic medicines for fatty liver disease
Punarnava Powder or Boerhavia diffusa
Punarnava powder from an ayurvedic herb used in the treatment of liver diseases and jaundice. They rejuvenate and cleanse the body of its toxins. Use the leaves of this herb in cooking regularly to treat fatty liver disease.
Arjuna or Terminalia arjuna
Arjuna as it is commonly called in India an ancient ayurvedic medicine for liver health and cardiovascular diseases. They prevent oxidative stress conditions in the liver and reduces the amount of cholesterol in blood level. Arjuna has antioxidants to cure liver disease and cardiovascular diseases.
What food to avoid for fatty liver disease?
• Alcohol
• Greasy junk food
• High sodium diet
• High sugar diet
• Animal fat
• White bread and rice
Will exercise help Fatty liver disease?
Fatty liver disease will progress faster when lifestyle is sedentary, switch to an active lifestyle with plenty of short walks, exercise, and yoga. An active lifestyle will decrease stress levels and detoxify the body of free radicals, which gets accumulated over years.
What are the symptoms of fatty liver disease?
1.Fatigue and tiredness
2.Gastrointestinal disorders
3. A blood test may show
• Increased liver enzymes like ALT and AST
• Elevated insulin level
• Increase in Triglyceride levels
4. Nausea accompanied by loss of appetite
6.Edema in lower limbs
7.Jaundice – Skin, and whites of the eye’s changes to yellow
8.Constant dull abdominal pain in the right upper part of the belly
Home remedies for the fatty liver disease cannot replace any medicines prescribed by the doctor. Home remedy is an alternative remedy that is natural without any side effects. When following a regime of home remedies, consult your doctor about drug interactions with home treatments for liver diseases. It takes some time to experience the positive of these home remedies for fatty liver disease. But they are nutritional and natural without any side effects on the body.
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Suggestions
Your article provides a comprehensive overview of natural remedies for fatty liver disease, covering various aspects from its causes and symptoms to home remedies. Here are a few suggestions to enhance the content:
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Introduction Clarity:
- Begin the article by clearly stating what fatty liver disease is, its prevalence, and the significance of early diagnosis and treatment.
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Causes and Risk Factors:
- Expand on the risk factors for fatty liver disease, including obesity, diabetes, and insulin resistance. Emphasize the importance of addressing these underlying conditions.
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Symptoms Clarification:
- Offer additional details on the symptoms, such as the gastrointestinal disorders mentioned. Describe how these symptoms may impact daily life and well-being.
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Lifestyle Changes:
- Emphasize the role of lifestyle changes, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, as crucial components of managing and preventing fatty liver disease.
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Turmeric and Research:
- Elaborate on specific research studies or findings that support the effectiveness of turmeric in treating fatty liver disease. This can add credibility to the recommendation.
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Flaxseed Preparation:
- Provide simple and practical ways for readers to incorporate flaxseed into their daily diet, such as including it in smoothies, oatmeal, or salads.
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Cinnamon Dosage:
- Offer guidance on the recommended dosage or frequency of consuming cinnamon for optimal results, ensuring that readers use it effectively.
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Honey and Sugar Levels:
- Clarify the statement regarding honey causing increased insulin resistance. Explain the importance of moderation and how choosing honey over refined sugar can be a better option.
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Amla Dosage:
- Specify the recommended dosage or form of amla (raw berries, juice, or as an ingredient) for individuals looking to incorporate it into their routine.
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Olive Oil Usage:
- Provide more details on how individuals can use olive oil in their daily lives, such as in cooking or salad dressings, making it easier for readers to adopt this remedy.
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Milk Thistle Duration:
- Suggest a duration or timeframe for taking milk thistle as a remedy, helping readers understand the commitment involved in incorporating it into their routine.
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Vegetable Alkalization:
- Explain the concept of alkalizing the body through vegetables, helping readers understand the health benefits associated with maintaining an alkaline environment.
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Ayurvedic Medicines Dosage:
- Provide guidance on the proper dosage or preparation of ayurvedic medicines like Punarnava Powder and Arjuna, ensuring safe and effective usage.
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Food to Avoid Elaboration:
- Offer a brief explanation of why certain foods (alcohol, greasy junk food, high sodium, high sugar, animal fat, white bread, and rice) should be avoided to complement the recommended dietary changes.
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Exercise Benefits:
- Highlight the specific benefits of exercise for fatty liver disease, such as its role in improving insulin sensitivity, reducing inflammation, and promoting overall well-being.
By incorporating these additional details, your article will provide a more nuanced and actionable guide for readers looking to address or prevent fatty liver disease through natural remedies.