One in three Indians suffers from fatty liver, research reveals, silent disease growing without pain

News Topical, Digital Desk : Fatty liver may sound like a minor problem, but the reality is much more dangerous. This disease begins with the gradual accumulation of fat in the liver and, over time, can damage one of the body's most vital organs. It's worrying that cases of fatty liver are rapidly increasing in India, yet it's still not being discussed as much as it should be. Until a few years ago, fatty liver was associated solely with excessive alcohol consumption, but the picture has changed. Today, long office hours, sedentary work, processed and sugary foods, low physical activity, and constant stress are the major causes of this disease. According to doctors, a large number of patients are now suffering from non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, which is now called Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease.

Every third Indian is affected by fatty liver

According to experts, fatty liver has become an epidemic in India. Research shows that approximately one in three adults in the country suffers from this disease. This figure is more than 50 percent in urban areas and among those with diabetes or obesity. Surprisingly, many people who appear slim and fit also suffer from fatty liver.

Why are the symptoms of fatty liver not visible?

Fatty liver is called a silent disease because its symptoms are not visible in its early stages. The liver lacks the ability to sense pain, so the body doesn't give any warning until significant damage has occurred. Experts say that sometimes liver enzyme tests are normal, even though fat has already accumulated. By the time symptoms like fatigue, heaviness in the upper abdomen, or weight loss appear, the disease has already progressed. Furthermore, fatty liver isn't just a disease of overweight people. In Indians, especially, abdominal fat and insulin resistance are major causes of fatty liver, even with a normal BMI. Women with PCOS, those with sleep problems, those who work for long periods of time while sitting, and employees in the IT sector are also at greater risk.

Dietary habits also spoil the liver

According to doctors, certain eating habits silently harm the liver. These include alcoholic drinks and packaged juices. Additionally, eating too many refined carbohydrates like refined flour and white rice, ultra-processed foods, a lack of protein, and sitting for long periods of time and lack of exercise all accelerate the accumulation of fat in the liver.

How to keep the liver safe?

Experts say that there is no solid scientific evidence that detox drinks and supplements can cure fatty liver. On the contrary, some supplements can further damage the liver. Experts believe that the real treatment lies in a balanced diet, regular exercise, and weight and stress management. Furthermore, to protect the liver, focus on reducing fat and preserving muscle rather than weight loss, engage in strength training 2-3 days a week, and consume adequate protein in every meal. 

Read More: Sitting for long periods of time is more dangerous than smoking cigarettes. Know which organ is most affected?