According to Dr. Wendell Espinosa, president of the Hepatology Association of the Philippines and fellow of the Philippine College of Physicians, exercise and a proper diet play a crucial role in preventing fatty liver disease. In a recent forum, he emphasized the importance of lifestyle management, particularly exercise, for patients with non-complex fatty liver disease. Additionally, he recommended a hypocaloric diet, which involves consuming lesser food than usual.
While there is no specific food that directly causes fatty liver disease, Dr. Espinosa highlighted that the quantity of food an individual consumes can be a risk factor. To effectively manage and control the disease, he emphasized the significance of at least 150 minutes of exercise per week, following a Mediterranean diet, and adopting healthy eating habits.
The liver serves various functions in the body, including providing protein, detoxifying harmful substances, regulating chemical levels in the blood, and producing bile for proper organ function. Fatty liver disease is most commonly associated with metabolic factors, where more than 5 percent of the liver accumulates fats.
Dr. Espinosa stressed the need to prevent complications in patients with fatty liver disease, particularly those who are obese, diabetic, hypertensive, or have high cholesterol. He mentioned that these individuals have a 20-30 percent chance of developing a severe form of fatty liver called steatohepatitis. Additionally, about 40 percent of these patients may also develop cirrhosis, leading to further complications due to liver inflammation and scarring.
Managing the associated comorbidities or other diseases is crucial in controlling fatty liver disease. For example, if a patient has hypertension, it is essential to control their blood pressure. Dr. Espinosa emphasized that this disease can also manifest in other organs, increasing the risk of stroke and other cardiovascular diseases.
Data from the National Library of Medicine reveals that the global incidence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is 47 cases per 1,000 population, with a higher prevalence among males. The estimated prevalence has risen from 26 percent in 2005 to 38 percent in 2016. It is projected to increase by 1 to 6 percent by 2030.
Preventing fatty liver disease requires a comprehensive approach that includes regular exercise, adopting a healthy diet, and managing associated conditions. By incorporating these lifestyle changes, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of developing this potentially serious condition.
Source: The Manila Times
