7 Worst Habits That Can Cause Fatty Liver
Yes, sedentary lifestyle is a major cause of many health problems. But, apart from this, some daily habits lead to fatty liver and may not even be noticed.
Fatty liver disease is a growing health concern, affecting up to 25% of the global population. While obesity, diabetes and high cholesterol are some of the risk factors that can lead to the development of fatty liver, your daily habits can also play a big role. Here are some of the worst daily habits that can lead to fatty liver.
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7 Habits Cause Fatty Liver
- Overeating: Consuming more calories than your body needs, especially foods high in fat and carbohydrates, can cause fat to accumulate in the liver. Portion control is key – aim for balanced meals with lean proteins, whole grains, fruits and vegetables.
- Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of physical activity is a major risk factor for fatty liver. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week, such as brisk walking, swimming or cycling. Getting up and moving around throughout the day is also important.
- Excessive alcohol consumption: Heavy, long-term alcohol consumption is a major cause of fatty liver disease. .
- Eating too much sugar: Foods and drinks high in sugar, such as soda, candy, and baked goods, can cause fat to accumulate in the liver. Try to keep added sugars below 6 teaspoons per day.
- Not getting enough sleep: Lack of sleep has been linked to the development of fatty liver. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep for liver health.
- Eating processed foods: Highly processed, high-fat, high-sodium foods such as fast food, deli meats, and frozen meals can negatively affect the liver. Choose whole, minimally processed foods as much as possible.
- More screen time: Spending too much time in front of a screen, whether it's for work, entertainment or scrolling through social media, has been linked to fatty liver disease. Try to limit screen time for entertainment and take regular breaks.
Making sustainable changes to these daily habits can go a long way in preventing and managing fatty liver disease. Focus on eating a balanced, nutrient-dense diet, regular physical activity, quality sleep, and limiting alcohol and processed foods. A consultation with a healthcare provider can also help develop a personalized plan to support liver health.