The liver is one of the most vital organs in the body, serving as the body’s primary detoxifier. It filters toxins and impurities from the blood, including environmental and dietary toxins, medications, excess hormones, antibiotics, heavy metals, and pesticides from improperly washed produce.
Moreover, the liver plays a key role in producing bile, essential for absorbing fat-soluble vitamins and nutrients. Any disruption in bile production can lead to deficiencies in these vitamins.
The liver also produces cholesterol, crucial for arterial health and the production of essential hormones. However, unhealthy lifestyles or medical conditions can negatively impact liver health, slowing its detoxification (natural detox) process and leading to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Neglecting fatty liver disease may progress to liver cirrhosis, requiring a transplant.
Root Causes of Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
- Excess Sugar, Starch Consumption and Insulin Resistance
Overconsumption of sugars and refined starches leads the liver to convert them into fat. - Environmental Toxins
Exposure to heavy metals and pesticides also contributes to liver fat accumulation.
Symptoms of Fatty Liver Disease
- Chronic Fatigue and Muscle Pain
Persistent exhaustion is a common symptom. - Hormonal Imbalances (Estrogen Dominance)
- In women: irregular menstruation, infertility, stress, and increased cancer risk.
- In men: loss of masculine traits, hair thinning, soft skin, breast enlargement, and reduced sexual performance.
- Night Blindness
A result of vitamin A deficiency due to impaired bile production. - Pain on the Left Side
Especially when lying down, often associated with cirrhosis in advanced stages.
Diagnostic Tests for Fatty Liver Disease
- Liver Function Tests
Elevated ALT and AST enzymes indicate liver stress. - Ultrasound Imaging
Used to detect fat deposits in the liver. - Insulin Resistance Tests
Evaluating fasting insulin and glucose levels. - Lipid Profile
High LDL (bad cholesterol) and low HDL (good cholesterol) levels. - Hormone Tests
Measuring estrogen and cortisol levels. - Bile Acid Test
Elevated levels indicate fatty liver disease. - C-reactive Protein (CRP)
High levels are often linked to liver inflammation.
Diet Recommendations for Fatty Liver
- Avoid Added Sugars
There are some types of foods you should avoid with fatty liver, such as high-fructose corn syrup found in ketchup and processed sauces. Avoid high-sugar fruits like mangoes and dates. Instead, choose low-sugar fruits such as berries, pomegranates, and strawberries. - Opt for Healthy Carbohydrates
Include quinoa, sweet potatoes, and bulgur, and avoid refined carbs like white potatoes, fried foods, pasta, and pastries. - Consume Healthy Fats
Use extra virgin olive oil, organic coconut oil, and clarified butter. Avoid hydrogenated oils like sunflower oil. - Limit Processed Proteins
Replace sausages and hot dogs with healthy protein sources like fish and lean chicken.
Effective Natural Home Remedies for Fatty Liver
- Organic Apple Cider Vinegar
Its acetic acid content helps dissolve liver and visceral fat. - Green Juice
Drink daily; include leafy greens, ginger, turmeric, and spirulina for detoxification. - Beetroot Juice
Enhances the liver’s detoxification processes. - Dandelion Flower Tea
Consuming dandelion flower tea 2-3 times daily for a month has been shown to improve liver health. - Bitter Leafy Greens
Add arugula, parsley, and cooked dandelion leaves to your diet. - Intermittent Fasting
Fasting 3–4 times per week supports liver fat reduction.
Supplements and Herbs to Reduce Fatty Liver Quickly
- Milk Thistle
A liver-supporting herb that helps detoxify over 2–3 months. - Glutathione
A potent antioxidant that aids in eliminating liver toxins. NAC supplements can enhance glutathione production naturally.
Physical Activity for a Healthier Liver
There are many benefits of exercise for reversing fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Regular exercise (20–30 minutes daily), such as brisk walks 15–30 minutes 5 days a week, can boost liver health and help in fat reduction.
Conclusion
Adopting a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet, natural supplements, and regular physical activity can significantly improve liver health and reduce fatty deposits in a short period of time.
For more details about natural treatments for fatty liver disease, watch this full episode below on the Dr. Fajer AlJumairi YouTube channel: