NAFLD doesn’t stand for a sports league, it stands for a condition called nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. It currently affects up to 30% of the world's population because of the epidemics of obesity and Type 2 diabetes.
In this country, where 70% of people are overweight or obese and an estimated 98 million American adults have prediabetes, it's a major problem.
NAFLD may have no symptoms, but other times it can cause fatigue and pain in the upper right belly. When it progresses, it can turn into nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). That condition may cause itchy skin, abdominal and leg swelling, shortness of breath, and an enlarged spleen.
As NASH progresses, cirrhosis and end-stage liver disease, even liver cancer, may develop — and it's a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
If you're at risk for or have developed NAFLD or NASH, new research has found that a specific protein, called NOX4, helps combat it and its progression. A study published in The Journal of Clinical Investigation says NAFLD worsens as that protein's level falls, increasing the risk for serious complications.
But guess what foods contain the liver-protecting element? Cruciferous veggies such as cauliflower, broccoli, kale, arugula, bok choy, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, radishes, and turnips. If you up your daily intake, you may benefit — and help prevent certain kinds of cancer too, according to the National Cancer Institute.
Check out recipes such as the Keto Pancakes and Stir-fried Broccoli at iHerb.com, and help dash your risk for NAFLD and NASH.