Treatment of fatty liver
For those who have been told they have fatty liver during a checkup. We will confirm the condition with blood tests and ultrasound, and treat it in the internal medicine department with a focus on diet and exercise. Five minutes’ walk from Ikiridobashi Station.
What is fatty liver disease (MASLD)?
There are not few people who are confused about what to do after being told at a health checkup that they have fatty liver disease, high ALT levels, or abnormal liver function.
Among the conditions in which fat accumulates in the liver and are related to lifestyle-related diseases (abnormal metabolism), we currently refer to them as MASLD (metabolic dysfunction-related fatty liver disease). Previously, they were called NAFLD (non-alcoholic fatty liver disease). If you have any of the following metabolic abnormalities and your liver is accumulating fat, you will be diagnosed with MASLD.
- Obesity (increased BMI and abdominal girth)
- Diabetes, or borderline hyperglycemia
- high blood pressure
- Having high levels of triglycerides or low HDL cholesterol (lipid abnormalities)
In people who drink a lot of alcohol (about 210–420 grams per week for men and 140–350 grams for women), fatty liver with metabolic abnormalities is called MetALD (metabolic dysfunction alcohol-related liver disease). Fat liver in people who drink more than this is considered a liver disease caused by alcohol. Fat liver is also a disease caused by lifestyle habits, even in people who do not drink alcohol.
In such cases, seek medical attention.
- During a health check-up, they were diagnosed with fatty liver, elevated ALT levels, and abnormal liver function.
- In addition to the elevated ALT levels during the health check-up, an increase in triglycerides and waist circumference was also noted.
- I have diabetes, high blood pressure, and lipid abnormalities, and I am concerned about my liver function numbers.
Fatty liver does not show any symptoms at first. However, 20 to 30% of people progress to MASH (metabolic dysfunction-related fatty liver disease), which is characterized by inflammation and fibrosis in the liver. It is estimated that about 20% of MASH will eventually progress to cirrhosis and liver cancer. Having fatty liver also increases the risk of diabetes, heart attack, and stroke.
Tests performed at our clinic
- Blood tests: To check liver function, lipid metabolism, sugar metabolism, and inflammation
- Assessment of fibrosis: If necessary, use the FIB-4 index to determine the degree of fibrosis in the liver.
- Abdominal ultrasound (echography): Evaluates the fat and fibrosis in the liver.
medical treatment
The focus of treatment is diet and exercise. The goal is to lose 3 to 5% of your weight (2 to 3 kg for someone weighing 60 kg). We don’t recommend drastic fasting or fad diets; instead, we work together to rethink habits that are easy to maintain.
FoodReduce the amount of staple foods (rice, bread, noodles), and increase the intake of vegetables and protein (meat, fish, beans). Avoid juices, sweet snacks, and snacks. A gentle sugar restriction (low-carb diet) is the basic principle.
ExerciseStart with 20 to 30 minutes of walking three or more days a week, and if possible combine it with light strength training such as squats and push-ups. At our clinic, a physiotherapist will evaluate each individual, create a home exercise program that can be continued, and actually teach you how to do it. We will also offer a customized program for those who are not comfortable with exercise or are elderly.
薬There are currently no medications available through insurance that can be used to treat fatty liver disease itself.
Doctors who treat this disease
Doctors from the internal medicine department provide medical care. Our hospital has Japanese Diabetes Society diabetes specialists and Japanese Endocrine Society endocrinologists and metabolic specialists on staff.
Frequently asked questions
Q. I was told I have fatty liver even though I don't drink alcohol.
A. Fatty liver occurs in people who do not drink alcohol, as well as in those with metabolic abnormalities such as obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and lipid disorders. Currently, this condition is called MASLD.
Q. Since there are no symptoms, can I wait and see?
A. Although there are no symptoms in the early stages of fatty liver disease, some people progress to MASH that involves inflammation and fibrosis. It is recommended to check the condition at the time of a health checkup.
Q. How much weight can I lose?
A. Aim for 3 to 5% of your body weight. If you weigh 60kg, that’s 2 to 3kg.
Q. Can it be cured with supplements?
A. Fat liver cannot be cured solely through supplements. A basic approach is to make lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise, and supplements are only a supplementary aid. For more information, please see the explanation article below.
Related explanatory articles
- How to reduce fatty liver: Key points for improving through lifestyle habits
- Are supplements effective for fatty liver? How to choose them correctly and precautions
- What to do if you are told you have a fatty liver at your health checkup: Causes, risks, and first steps to take
- Fatty Liver Diet: Dietary Habits and Specific Points for Improvement
- Can fatty liver disease (MASLD) be improved through exercise? Effective exercise methods and precautions
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