Fatty liver disease is no longer a condition seen only in people who drink alcohol. Today, a large number of Indians who do not consume alcohol are being diagnosed with fatty liver disease. This condition is called Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD). It has become a serious and growing health problem in India due to changing lifestyle habits, poor diet, lack of exercise, and increasing stress.
According to health studies, nearly 30–40% of urban Indians may have some form of fatty liver disease. Many people are unaware of it because the disease often shows no symptoms in the early stages. Early diagnosis and proper treatment by an experienced Gastroenterologist in Thrissur can prevent serious liver damage in the future.
Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease occurs when excess fat builds up in the liver cells in people who drink little or no alcohol. A healthy liver contains small amounts of fat. But when fat makes up more than 5–10% of the liver weight, it is considered fatty liver disease.
NAFLD can slowly progress to more serious conditions such as:
- Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)
- Liver fibrosis
- Liver cirrhosis
- Liver failure
- Liver cancer
This is why early care from a Best GI Surgeon in Thrissur or liver specialist is very important.
Several factors contribute to the rise of fatty liver disease in non-alcoholics:
- High intake of oily and processed food
- Increased consumption of sugar and refined carbs
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Obesity and belly fat
- Diabetes and high cholesterol
- Stress and irregular sleep
People who appear healthy may still have fatty liver disease. That is why regular health check-ups are important.
One major problem with fatty liver disease is that symptoms are often silent. Many patients feel normal in the early stage. As the disease progresses, symptoms may appear.
Common fatty liver disease symptoms include:
- Constant tiredness
- Pain or discomfort on the right side of the abdomen
- Bloating
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Sudden weight gain
- Difficulty concentrating
In advanced cases, symptoms may include jaundice, swelling of legs, and liver enlargement. Early medical attention can prevent serious damage.
Diagnosis usually begins with a clinical evaluation and medical history. Blood tests may show abnormal liver enzymes. Imaging tests such as ultrasound, FibroScan, CT scan, or MRI can confirm fatty liver.
In rare cases, a liver biopsy may be advised. An experienced Laparoscopic Surgeon in Thrissur with expertise in liver diseases can guide patients through accurate diagnosis and personalised care.
Diet plays the most important role in managing and reversing fatty liver disease. A well-planned fatty liver disease diet can reduce liver fat and improve liver function.
Foods to include:
- Fresh vegetables and fruits
- Whole grains like brown rice and millets
- Lean proteins such as fish, eggs, and pulses
- Healthy fats from nuts and seeds
- Plenty of water
Foods to avoid:
- Fried and oily food
- Bakery items and junk food
- Sugary drinks and sweets
- White rice and refined flour
- Alcohol
A personalised diet plan designed by a liver specialist can show excellent results when followed regularly.
Currently, there is no single medicine that cures fatty liver disease completely. However, fatty liver disease medication may be prescribed to manage associated conditions like diabetes, cholesterol, and insulin resistance.
Treatment mainly focuses on:
- Weight reduction
- Lifestyle modification
- Control of diabetes and cholesterol
- Regular monitoring of liver health
In advanced cases where liver damage has occurred, surgical expertise from a Robotic Surgeon in Thrissur may be required for complex liver or GI conditions.
Along with diet, lifestyle changes are essential:
- Exercise at least 30 minutes daily
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Control blood sugar and cholesterol
- Avoid unnecessary medicines
- Manage stress through yoga or meditation
These steps help reverse fatty liver disease in many patients.
Most cases do not need surgery. But if fatty liver disease progresses to severe liver damage or cancer, surgical intervention may be required. Dr. Arun S. Nair is a highly respected Best GI Cancer Surgeon in Thrissur with extensive experience in treating complex liver and gastrointestinal cancers. He is also a leading Laparoscopic Surgeon in Thrissur, offering minimally invasive procedures for faster recovery.
For advanced cases, robotic-assisted surgery may be advised. As a skilled Robotic Surgeon in Thrissur, Dr. Nair uses state-of-the-art technology for precision and safety.
If you are looking for expert care for fatty liver disease, Dr. Arun S. Nair – Minimal Access Gastro Surgeon, GI Cancer, HPB, Bariatric Surgeon is one of the most trusted specialists in Kerala. Dr. Arun S. Nair is a highly experienced Gastroenterologist in Thrissur with over 16+ years of expertise in treating complex liver and gastrointestinal conditions. He is widely recognised as the Best GI Cancer Surgeon in Thrissur, known for his advanced skills in laparoscopic and robotic surgery.
Why choose Dr. Arun S. Nair?
- Internationally trained in GI and liver surgery
- Expert Laparoscopic Surgeon in Thrissur
- Highly skilled Robotic Surgeon in Thrissur
- Specialised in liver, pancreas, stomach, and GI cancers
- Patient-first and ethical approach
- Advanced diagnostic and treatment facilities
He practices at Elixir Clinic, West Fort, Thrissur, providing evidence-based and personalised treatment for fatty liver disease and other GI disorders.
Fatty liver disease in non-alcoholics is a growing Indian problem. The good news is that it is reversible in early stages. Awareness, healthy habits, and timely medical care can protect your liver.
If you experience symptoms or have risk factors like obesity or diabetes, do not ignore them. Consulting an experienced specialist makes all the difference.
Fatty liver disease in non-alcoholics is increasing rapidly in India due to unhealthy lifestyle habits and lack of awareness. The condition often shows no early symptoms, which makes regular check-ups very important. With timely diagnosis, the right fatty liver disease diet, lifestyle changes, and proper medical guidance, liver damage can be prevented and even reversed in many cases. If you have risk factors or notice fatty liver disease symptoms, do not delay consultation. Booking Appointment with Dr. Arun S. Nair, a trusted Gastroenterologist in Thrissur, offers expert, evidence-based care to help patients manage fatty liver disease safely and effectively and protect their liver health for the long term.
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