In the last one or two decades, the risk of many types of chronic diseases has increased rapidly across the world. A large population is affected by diabetes and heart diseases, which is a serious problem and the pressure on the health sector is increasing due to liver and kidney related diseases. Fatty liver disease is a rapidly emerging problem that largely affects the adult population. Data from a recent study in this regard are raising further concerns.
Research published in the journal Nature Communications found that the number of fatty liver patients is increasing around the world. In America alone, four out of every 10 people suffer from fatty liver.
Dr. Juan Pablo Arabo, a liver disease expert at the Institute for Liver Disease and Metabolic Health, advises that everyone should be aware of the increasing incidence of liver disease and make continued efforts for prevention. 4 out of 10 adults suffer from fatty liver disease and its risks and health implications are well known
According to the team led by Juan, as of 2018, 42% of adults reported having some form of fatty liver disease. This is more than the previous estimate. The habit of drinking alcohol is considered to be the main reason for increasing liver problems, although people who do not drink alcohol may also have to face this problem. This is called non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
Indians have been found to be at higher risk of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease, which health experts are warning everyone about in July this year. The Union Minister informed the people about the shocking information, he said that every third person in the country may be suffering from fatty liver disease. The risk of this disease caused by diabetes and other metabolic disorders increases rapidly even in those who do not drink alcohol.
Most cases of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in Western countries are seen in people suffering from obesity, but in India about 20 percent of non-obese people also suffer from it.
What is Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease?
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is a liver disease in which excess fat accumulates in the liver. Due to this the normal functioning of this organ starts getting affected. Although lifestyle factors are thought to increase risk, experts don’t know exactly what causes fatty liver to develop.
Studies have found an association between non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and various metabolic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. Ongoing care and treatment is very important for people with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Furthermore, both lifestyle and dietary habits should be improved to reduce the increased risk of this disease.
Take these measures to keep your liver healthy
To avoid serious liver related diseases, it is very important to control your weight. Eat a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and healthy fats. Apart from this, also reduce the intake of alcohol, sugar and salt. Excessive consumption of soda, sports drinks, packaged juices and other sweetened beverages can make you a victim of fatty liver.
To keep the liver healthy, make a habit of exercising for at least 30 minutes every day. It has been observed that people who are physically active have less risk of chronic diseases.