Have you ever been told by your family doctor that you have a fatty liver? Are you confused by this because you eat well and only occasionally have a glass of red wine? Are you doing a detoxification program and not seeing the results you expect? Well, if you answered yes to the above questions, you are not alone.
The liver is one of the most important organs in the human body. It is central to almost all vital processes. Despite this crucial role, often it is not thoroughly assessed. Unfortunately, there is a gap in the current healthcare system with regards to the detection and treatment of liver conditions. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the term used to described fatty infiltration in the liver cells. This disease is rising amongst Canadians. Currently, the treatment for NAFLD is lifestyle modification.
Did you know?
- It is estimated that approximately 3 million people, 1 in 10 Canadians, have some form of liver disease
- Early detection and treatment can lead to the prevention of more progressive forms of liver disease
- The FibroScan is a non-invasive and simple test that can assess percentage of fatty liver and fibrosis
- NAFLD is typically seen in obesity, however lean individuals are often diagnosed with this condition
- Patients with PCOS, elevated blood sugar or cholesterol levels may be at higher risk to developing NAFLD
- Certain dietary and vitamin interventions may help reduce severity of NAFLD
Why is this important?
Early intervention with a focus on lifestyle modification may help to prevent the later stages of liver disease. In the early stages of fatty liver, there is an opportunity to prevent further fatty accumulation. Over time, a fatty liver can lead to non-alcoholic steatosis hepatitis (NASH) which can cause scarring and irreversible damage.
If you are doing a cleanse, you may consider doing a liver scan to assess for liver function. This can assist with determining which cleanse may be most appropriate for you. This can be determined when working with your ND.
Action steps recommended by Dr. Gill & Dr. Erin
- Ask your family doctor or naturopathic doctor to test for liver function. This can include testing of multiple liver enzymes. If elevated, this could lead to a fatty liver.
- If your liver enzymes are elevated, consider testing using the FibroScan.
- If diagnosed with a fatty liver, seek preventative care with your naturopathic doctor.
- If you have no previous concerns with your liver, consider the test to have as a baseline record of liver health. Prevention is KEY!