Fatty liver, or hepatic steatosis, is a silent but widespread condition that affects more than 40% of adults in the United States. Without intervention, this disease can lead to serious problems such as weight gain, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and even heart complications. Fortunately, by adjusting your diet and adding specific nutrients, it is possible to regenerate the liver and eliminate accumulated fat. This article details the 6 essential vitamins and supplements, as well as the lifestyle changes you can make for a healthier liver.
Understanding Fatty Liver Disease
The liver, the second largest organ in the human body, plays a fundamental role in filtering toxins, storing nutrients (vitamins A, D, E, K, and B12), and producing bile, which is essential for digesting fats. However, a diet high in sugars, processed vegetable oils, alcohol, or refined carbohydrates can impair these functions.
Symptoms of a fatty liver:
Pain or discomfort: A feeling of pressure or pain in the right side of the body, including the shoulder, neck, or under the ribs.
Abdominal fat accumulation: A rounded belly is often a sign of liver fat escaping into the abdominal area.
Hormonal signs: Spider veins and gynecomastia (swollen breasts in men) caused by a hormonal imbalance linked to poor estrogen filtration.
Other indicators: Hypothyroidism, swelling of one foot (often the right), or absence of symptoms until the disease is advanced.
Over time, fatty liver disease can lead to chronic inflammation, fibrosis, or cirrhosis. However, with the right nutrients and healthy habits, the liver can completely regenerate.