Question: Can you tell me what causes a fatty liver? How is it treated?
Dr. Hibberd’s Answer:
A fatty liver may occur for a number of reasons. The most common reasons are drinking excessive amounts of alcohol and having uncontrolled diabetes. Both conditions are accompanied by elevated serum triglycerides and blood fats are deposited into the liver.
Sometimes genetic factors are involved. Cholesterol and triglyceride disorders will lead to fatty liver infiltration when left uncontrolled. The best treatment is weight management, drinking alcohol in moderation, and cholesterol management with medical supervision. Sometimes, following a Mediterranean-style diet rich in whole grains, nuts, fresh fruits and vegetables, fish, and poultry, and exercising regularly may be sufficient for some people. However, others will need insulin to manage their diabetes and intensive lipid and triglyceride medical management to control their blood fats.
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