Why fatty liver disease is increasing even among non-drinkers: Check early symptoms, risk factors

Fatty liver disease, also known as hepatic steatosis, occurs when excess fat builds up in the liver. While some amount of fat in the liver is considered normal, too much can interfere with liver function and lead to serious complications. The condition is classified into two major types—Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (ALD) and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)—depending on the cause of fat accumulation.

Alcoholic vs Non-Alcoholic: Key Differences

As per Healthline, Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease is caused by excessive and prolonged alcohol consumption. When not addressed, it can progress to alcoholic hepatitis and eventually cirrhosis, both of which cause permanent liver damage. Symptoms may include abdominal discomfort, fatigue, jaundice, and in severe cases, fluid accumulation and confusion.

In contrast, Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease is not linked to alcohol use. Instead, it is closely associated with metabolic issues like obesity, insulin resistance, and high cholesterol. NAFLD can also progress from a simple fatty liver to Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH), a more serious condition involving inflammation and liver cell damage, potentially leading to fibrosis, cirrhosis, or even liver cancer.

The Silent Nature of the Disease

Both ALD and NAFLD are often asymptomatic in early stages. Many people remain unaware they have liver damage until it has progressed significantly. In NAFLD, early warning signs may include persistent fatigue, upper right abdominal discomfort, and unexplained weight loss. Blood tests might show elevated liver enzymes, indicating inflammation or injury.

When the disease advances to cirrhosis, symptoms can become more visible—yellowing of the skin (jaundice), swelling in the abdomen or legs, easy bruising, and mental confusion.

Modern Lifestyle and Liver Stress

NAFLD has become more prevalent due to sedentary lifestyles, poor dietary choices, stress, and sleep deprivation. Consumption of processed foods, sugary drinks, and lack of physical activity are considered major contributors. Medical experts warn that NAFLD is becoming one of the leading causes of liver-related complications globally.

The liver plays a crucial role in detoxifying the body, processing everything from alcohol to medications to fatty food. When it's overburdened, the impact is felt throughout the body in the form of fatigue, digestive issues, hormonal imbalances, and more.

Risk Factors to Watch

While ALD is primarily caused by alcohol, its severity can be influenced by malnutrition, age, and underlying viral hepatitis. On the other hand, NAFLD risk increases with:

• Obesity or excess abdominal fat
• Type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance
• High triglycerides or low HDL cholesterol
• Sleep apnea, hypothyroidism, and polycystic ovary syndrome
• Rapid weight loss or malnourishment

Older individuals are particularly vulnerable to both forms.

What Can Be Done?

For ALD, the cornerstone of treatment is complete abstinence from alcohol. Improvement is often seen once alcohol consumption stops. NAFLD requires a multifaceted approach:

• Weight loss through healthy diet and exercise
• Better control of blood sugar and cholesterol
• Avoiding processed and sugary foods
• Improving sleep quality
• Increasing physical activity, such as 30 minutes of walking daily

Even modest weight loss—around 5–10% of body weight—can significantly improve liver health.

Fatty liver disease is no longer an issue limited to heavy drinkers. With changing lifestyles, more people—regardless of their alcohol intake—are at risk. While the liver is a silent worker, its deterioration can have widespread effects. Early detection and lifestyle changes are critical for preventing long-term damage and ensuring overall well-being.