What Is the Fatty Liver Diet Plan?

People with fatty liver disease should eat a balanced diet limiting carbohydrates, such as rice, grits, potatoes, corn and bread, according to WebMD. Overweight or obese individuals should reduce their intake of sugary drinks, get regular exercise, and focus on gradually losing weight through a healthy diet.

Avoiding alcohol is critically important for those with alcoholic fatty liver, states WebMD. Alcohol consumption is the primary cause of alcoholic fatty liver and can occur after long or short periods of heavy drinking. Other causes include hepatitis C, obesity and high levels of iron as well as hereditary conditions. Individuals may have genes that influence how the body processes alcohol as well as increase the risk of alcoholism.

As of 2015, it’s not clear what causes nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, but genes, age, obesity and other chronic conditions, such as diabetes and high cholesterol, influence its development, according to WebMD. Additionally, viral hepatitis, autoimmune liver disease, certain medications and weight conditions, such as malnutrition and rapid weight loss, may cause nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.

Symptoms aren’t always apparent in early stages, but they include fatigue, nausea, abdominal pain, skin discoloration and confusion or trouble concentrating, notes WebMD. As the condition progresses, cirrhosis, or scarring of the liver, may occur, which causes jaundice, internal bleeding, fluid buildup, muscle deterioration and liver failure.