If you carry excess weight, you’re not alone. Nearly three-fourths of the adult population in the United States is overweight or obese. And over time, that can lead to inflammation and even liver damage. In fact, about one in three adults in the United States has nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, characterized by the liver containing more than 5-10% fat.
But here’s the good news: Weight loss is one of the most effective ways to reduce your risk. By shedding a little bit (we’re talking just 10% of your initial body weight), you can significantly reduce fat in your liver, improve its function, and reduce the chance of developing serious complications.
Ready to feel better and take some pressure off your liver? See Dr. Jaxel Lopez-Sepulveda to take advantage of our comprehensive weight loss services at Clinica Tu Salud in Irving, Texas, to achieve your weight goals easily.
Fatty liver disease is when your liver stores excess fat. While heavy alcohol consumption can lead to alcoholic fatty liver disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease can affect people who drink little to no alcohol.
We often see non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in those who carry excess body weight (overweight or obese).
While it’s typical to have no symptoms of fatty liver disease (at least initially), you might eventually not feel well, develop fatigue, or experience itching skin, abdominal or leg swelling, shortness of breath, jaundice, or pain in the upper right part of your belly.
When left untreated, fatty liver disease can progress to liver scarring (cirrhosis), which may eventually lead to liver cancer, end-stage liver failure, heart disease, or other complications.
Weight loss helps reduce fat in many areas of your body, including your liver, lessening the risk of fatty liver disease. Losing just 3-5 percent of your body weight helps decrease liver fat, while losing 7-10 percent of your weight (if you’re overweight or obese) at a slow, steady pace optimizes liver health and overall well-being.
The best way to move toward a healthy body weight is to contact Dr. Lopez-Sepulveda for a personalized weight loss plan.
He creates a program comprising less stress, better sleep, regular exercise, and a nutritious diet rich in fruits, vegetables, protein foods, legumes, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and heart-healthy fats. He tailors a weight loss plan that matches your needs and long-term goals. You might also take weight loss medications or dietary supplements.
Dr. Lopez-Sepulveda provides comprehensive men’s health and women’s health services to maximize your overall health and well-being and detect potential health concerns before complications arise.
To begin a weight loss journey and reduce your risk of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, schedule an appointment with Dr. Lopez-Sepulveda at Clinica Tu Salud by contacting us today by phone or online.
