What it is
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is characterised by accumulation of more than 5% fat in the liver, in the form of triglycerides, that is not caused by excessive alcohol consumption or by another cause (medication-related or viral).
Symptoms
There are usually no symptoms.
Nutritional management
- 5–10% reduction in body weight
- Steady, gradual weight loss
- Improvement of metabolic parameters such as glucose, lipids and blood pressure
- Limiting saturated fats and favouring monounsaturated and omega-3 fatty acids
- Limiting sugar and processed foods, and reducing fructose
- Small, frequent meals
- Aerobic exercise and resistance training
When to consult a dietitian-nutritionist
- After a diagnosis of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
- When there is increased body weight or obesity
- When there is a sedentary lifestyle or reduced physical activity
- When a personalised nutrition plan is needed for weight loss and improved liver function
- When education is needed on choosing foods that help reduce intake of simple sugars, saturated and trans fats
- When multiple risk factors co-exist, such as dyslipidaemia, hypertension or insulin resistance