Have You Heard of Fatty Liver Disease?

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, which is today commonly called metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), is the result of a buildup of excessive fat in your liver. Although fatty liver disease isn’t discussed as widely as other conditions such as diabetes, it is very common. In fact, it is estimated that as many as 24 percent of people have it.

What causes MASLD?

Although doctors are not certain of the exact cause, it most frequently appears in people who are obese or suffer from type 2 diabetes or pre-diabetes, high cholesterol and triglycerides, or high blood pressure.  When the liver has both excess fat buildup and inflammation, it's called metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), a much more serious condition that can lead to cirrhosis and even liver cancer.  MASH afflicts in one in four people with MASLD.

Although people with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease do not necessarily develop other liver complications, they are more likely to experience a variety of health problems, such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and other conditions related to metabolic health.

Is there any way to prevent MASLD?

There are many things people can do to prevent or, in some cases, even reverse it.  These include eating a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains, maintaining a healthy weight, and getting exercise.

In fact, a proper diet and getting exercise and enough sleep are essential to staying healthy, avoiding or managing a variety of chronic diseases.

To help people manage their health, WellRx mobile app provides nutrition and grocery recommendations that may be personalized based on their own health. This app can also help consumers save up to 80% off the retail price for prescription medications at pharmacies across the US.

How do I know if I have MASLD?

Ask your doctor. There are a variety of tests he or she can perform. Based on those results, your doctor can help you determine a plan that is right for you.

References:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/nonalcoholic-fatty-liver-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20354567

https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/liver-disease/nafld-nash/definition-facts#:~:text=Experts%20estimate%20about%2024%25%20of,of%20U.S.%20adults%20have%20NASH

https://gi.org/topics/steatotic-liver-disease-masld/

https://www.yalemedicine.org/news/mash

https://weillcornell.org/news/the-fda-has-approved-a-new-treatment-for-a-liver-disease-called-mash-metabolic-dysfunction