Liver
Fatty liver (MASLD)
Extra fat builds up in the liver, most often with weight gain, diabetes, high cholesterol or alcohol. It usually causes no symptoms, but in some people it slowly leads to scarring (fibrosis) and cirrhosis.
Common symptoms
- Usually none
- Found on an ultrasound or a liver blood test
- Tiredness or heaviness on the right side
Causes and risk factors
- Extra weight, especially fat around the belly
- Type 2 diabetes and prediabetes
- High cholesterol or triglycerides
- Regular alcohol use
- Sugary drinks, refined flour and fried food
How it is diagnosed
Liver blood tests and an ultrasound show the fat. A liver stiffness test (elastography) or blood-based scores check whether scarring has started, which decides how closely you need follow-up.
Treatment
Losing 7 to 10% of body weight, regular exercise, controlling blood sugar and avoiding alcohol can reverse early fatty liver. A liver stiffness test checks for scarring.
Diet guide: Fatty liver
Eat more
- Vegetables and salads at every meal
- Whole grains: atta with chokar, millets, oats, brown rice
- Dal, chana, rajma and sprouts for protein
- Whole fruits instead of juice
- Plain coffee or tea with little sugar
Cut down
- Soft drinks, packaged juices and sweets
- Fried snacks, namkeen and bakery items
- Maida: white bread, biscuits, noodles
- Processed and red meat
- Alcohol, which is best avoided completely
Good to know
- Losing 7 to 10% of body weight can reverse early fatty liver
- About 150 minutes of brisk walking a week helps even before weight falls
- Ask for a liver stiffness test to check for scarring
When to see a gastroenterologist
Fatty liver on a report, raised liver enzymes, or diabetes with weight gain.
Common questions
Can thin people get fatty liver?
Yes. Many Indians develop fatty liver at a normal weight, because of belly fat and insulin resistance. It needs the same attention.
Do I need medicines for fatty liver?
Weight loss, exercise and diet are the main treatment. Medicines are used for diabetes, cholesterol and, in selected people with scarring, for the liver itself.