Many Obese People Have Undiagnosed Liver Disease

Being obese carries with it certain health risks. It significantly increases the chance getting heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and even certain types of cancer. But, there’s another little known risk of being obese. Carrying around extra weight can affect the liver – leading to a condition known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. This is now the most common cause of liver disease in this country and is estimated to affect up to a third of the population. The high incidence of this disease is directly related to the obesity epidemic in this country.

What Is Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease?

This is a condition where fat accumulates in liver cells. The disease usually progresses in stages. In the early stages, when there is only fat accumulation, there are usually no symptoms and the liver remains relatively healthy despite the excess fat storage – although there may be elevated liver enzymes on a blood test. This is usually the first sign of a problem.

The Risk of Being Obese: Serious Liver Disease

Some patients with non-alcoholic liver disease progress beyond this early stage to develop liver inflammation which can lead to decreased liver function and scarring. At this stage, there can be symptoms such as excessive fatigue and vague abdominal discomfort. In up to twenty percent of people, the disease will progress further to cirrhosis of the liver, at which point the condition is irreversible and a liver transplant may be needed.

Causes of Fatty Liver Disease: Obesity and Diabetes

This is a serious risk of being obese that few people are aware of. Most assume that liver disease is a problem unique to those who drink too much alcohol. Nothing could be further from the truth. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is also quite common in diabetics. The cause of fatty liver disease in those with diabetes or who are overweight seems to be related to the insulin resistance that occurs in these two groups. It’s thought that insulin resistance induces an inflammatory state that affects the liver.

What’s the Outlook?

The good news is that non-alcoholic fatty liver can be reversed in its early stages before significant liver damage has been done. This involves taking steps to decrease insulin resistance including gradual weight loss, exercise, and switching to a low glycemic diet to help control insulin and blood sugar levels. Some experts recommend a Mediterranean diet of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and minimal meat and dairy products for this condition. Alcohol should be strictly avoided to prevent  damage to the liver.

The Bottom Line? 

Anyone who’s obese should have liver enzymes checked every six months to screen for this condition. It’s estimated that up to three-quarters of those who are obese have the early stages of non-alcoholic liver disease. Fortunately, in many cases, this condition can be reversed with diet and lifestyle changes.