How To Reverse Grade 2 Fatty Liver: Doctor Shares Important Tips

The liver is a vital organ that plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including detoxification, metabolism, digestion, and the regulation of blood sugar levels. It also helps in the storage of nutrients and facilitates the breakdown of fats. Given its many functions, maintaining liver health is essential for overall well-being. However, fatty liver disease has become increasingly common in recent years, largely due to lifestyle factors such as poor diet, lack of exercise, obesity, and increasing rates of diabetes. This condition occurs when excessive fat builds up in the liver cells, leading to inflammation and potential liver damage over time.

Fatty liver disease can be classified into different grades. While grade one refers to mild fat accumulation, grade two indicates moderate fat accumulation, where a significant portion of liver cells contains fat. In further stages, severe fat accumulation has occurred, potentially leading to fibrosis or cirrhosis. Here, let's understand grade 2 fatty liver in detail.

Grade 2 fatty liver

Grade 2 fatty liver, specifically, indicates a moderate level of fat within the liver, often requiring attention to prevent progression to more severe liver damage.

"Grade 2 fatty liver indicates a significant accumulation of fat in the liver. This condition typically affects individuals who are obese, overweight, or have long-standing diabetes or abnormal lipid levels. Excess fat deposition over time can lead to serious liver damage and, over one to two decades, may even result in cirrhosis or liver failure," said Dr. Kaushal Madan, Principal Director and Head-Clinical Hepatology, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket.

Causes of Grade 2 fatty liver include:

• Obesity
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Poor diet
• Insulin resistance
• Alcohol consumption
• Certain medications
• Genetics

Can Grade 2 fatty liver be reversed?

"There's no need to be overly concerned about grade 2 fatty liver. In the early stages, nearly all patients can reverse this condition if treated appropriately. Since fatty liver is caused by excessive fat, the key is to implement measures that promote fat mobilisation from the body," Dr. Madan explained.

Grade 2 fatty liver can often be reversed through lifestyle changes. Early intervention is key to preventing progression to more severe liver disease.

"The primary treatment involves lifestyle changes, including regular exercise and a low-calorie diet rich in protein, which helps mobilise fat and increase muscle mass. Focus on consuming a diet low in sugar, calories, and saturated fats to effectively promote fat mobilisation from both the body and the liver."

"Incorporating coffee into your diet may also benefit liver health, as it has been shown to protect the liver from the progression of fatty liver disease," he added.

Additionally, it is important to maintain hydration levels, limit alcohol consumption, lose excess weight and check for underlying health conditions like diabetes and cholesterol.

When to see a doctor

Unfortunately, fatty liver disease often remains silent until it reaches an advanced stage, which may be too late to take preventive action. By the time symptoms appear, the situation has usually worsened.

"If you discover you have fatty liver, it's essential to look for other signs and conduct further investigations to assess your risk level. Two crucial tests to consider are a liver function test (a blood test) and a fibro scan, which is simpler than an ultrasound. These tests will help evaluate the extent of fat in the liver and how much damage has occurred."

"I would estimate that more than 95% to 99% of patients can reverse the condition if diagnosed early and treated appropriately," he concluded.

Individuals with Grade 2 fatty liver can improve their overall liver health and potentially reverse the condition. It is essential to consult a doctor for personalised guidance and to monitor progress.

(Dr. Kaushal Madan, Principal Director and Head-Clinical Hepatology, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket)

Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.