Busting 10 myths about fatty liver
Jul 28, 2024
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What is fatty liver?
Fatty liver disease occurs when excess fat accumulates in the liver. The buildup of fat can lead to liver inflammation and damage, potentially progressing to liver failure if left untreated.
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Myth 1: Fatty liver is harmless
While many people with fatty liver experience no symptoms, it can progress to serious conditions like cirrhosis and liver cancer.
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Myth 2: Alcohol is the primary cause of fatty liver
While excessive alcohol consumption is a risk factor, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is becoming increasingly common due to factors like obesity, diabetes, and unhealthy diets.
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Myth 3: Hard liquor is worse for the liver than beer or wine
The type of alcohol doesn't matter as much as the amount consumed. Excessive intake of any alcoholic beverage can damage the liver.
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Myth 4: Fatty liver is a rare condition
It's becoming increasingly common worldwide due to rising obesity rates and unhealthy diets.
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Myth 5: Fatty liver is irreversible
While there's no specific medication, lifestyle changes like weight loss, diet, and exercise can help improve liver health and even reverse fatty liver in some cases.
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Myth 6: Only overweight people develop fatty liver
While obesity is a risk factor, people of normal weight can also develop fatty liver.
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Myth 7: Fatty liver only affects adults
Children can also develop fatty liver, often linked to obesity and type 2 diabetes.
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Myth 8: There are no symptoms of fatty liver
Early stages often have no symptoms, but as the condition progresses, symptoms like fatigue, abdominal pain, and weight loss may occur.
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Myth 9: Coffee is bad for the liver
Moderate coffee consumption has been linked to a reduced risk of liver disease, including fatty liver.
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Myth 10: Fatty liver is a genetic condition
While genetics can play a role, lifestyle factors are often more significant in developing fatty liver.
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