Fatty liver is a health problem that is increasing at an alarming rate among people all over the world, especially Malayalis. The liver, the largest internal organ in our body, naturally contains a small amount of fat. But when more than 5 to 10 percent of the total weight of the liver accumulates, it is scientifically called fatty liver disease. This disease, which does not show any symptoms initially, can lead to a fatal condition like liver cirrhosis if not treated on time. Here are the 5 main scientific reasons behind fatty liver:
Insulin resistance and excess carbohydrates: The most important scientific reason for fatty liver (NAFLD) is insulin resistance. When the rice, gourd, and flour sweets we eat reach the body, glucose rises rapidly in the blood. To control this, the body produces a large amount of insulin hormone. When cells become insulin resistant, excess fat and glucose in the blood are transferred to the liver and stored as triglycerides in liver cells (Hepatocytes).
Excessive use of fructose (High-Fructose Corn Syrup): Fructose-containing syrups are added to bakery desserts, ice cream, soft drinks, and packet juices for sweetness. Normally, glucose can be used by all cells in the body for energy. However, fructose can only be broken down in the liver. When excessive fructose reaches the body, the metabolism in the liver goes out of balance and it directly turns into fat in the liver.
Excessive alcohol consumption (Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease): Chronic alcoholism directly damages liver cells. When alcohol reaches the body, the liver breaks it down into toxins such as acetaldehyde. This process completely blocks the liver’s natural fat digestion and causes rapid fat accumulation in the liver. This is called alcoholic fatty liver.
Obesity and visceral fat (Obesity & Metabolic Syndrome): Gradual weight gain and fat accumulation in the abdomen (belly) double the risk of fatty liver. When fat cells in the body become too large, they release chemicals that cause chronic inflammation. This can speed up the process of fat accumulation in the liver. This risk is also higher in people with high cholesterol, triglycerides, and diabetes.
Physical inactivity and heredity (Sedentary Lifestyle): Sitting in front of the computer for long periods of time and leading a sedentary lifestyle with little exercise prevent the body from burning calories. These excess calories turn into fat in the liver. In addition, some people are genetically predisposed to developing fatty liver due to variations in certain genes.