Natural Remedies for Fatty Liver Prevention

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is an increasingly common condition marked by accumulation of fat in the liver cells. In some cases, fatty liver can cause inflammation and scarring and even lead to liver failure or cirrhosis.

Here are four ways to boost your defense against fatty liver disease.

1) Maintain a Healthy Weight

Sticking to a healthy, plant-based diet and getting regular exercise can keep fat from building up in your liver.

2) Cleanse Your Body of Toxins

Exposure to toxins (found in industrial chemicals, some medications, and even your food) can weaken liver function and may contribute to the development of fatty liver. In addition to keeping away from toxic substances, consider flushing toxins from your system with the help of a detox diet.

3) Get Your Antioxidants

Vitamins E and C -- both antioxidants -- may help promote liver health. In a 2005 study, scientists discovered that taking supplements of vitamins E and C helped lower participants' levels of enzymes that are typically elevated in people with fatty liver disease.

4) Try Herbal Medicine

A traditional remedy for liver problems, milk thistle may boost the production of enzymes that help the liver knock out toxins. However, it's important to note that the FDA has not approved the use of milk thistle for improving liver health. Before you begin taking any kind of herb, find out how to use supplements safely.

Often occurring in people who are overweight or obese, fatty liver has been linked to diabetes, high levels of blood fats, and insulin resistance. In fact, a 2009 study suggests that approximately 70% of people with type-2 diabetes may have fatty liver, and that the disease might follow a more aggressive course for diabetes patients.

Standard blood tests at your doctor's office should indicate whether you have high levels of certain liver enzymes, a marker of fatty liver.

Although there is no way to treat fatty liver medically, losing weight and lowering your levels of blood fats could help manage the condition. Keeping fatty liver in check is crucial to your overall health: A pair of studies published in 2008 show that excess liver fat can leave you more vulnerable to cardiovascular disease, in addition to diabetes.

Due to a lack of supporting research, it's too soon to recommend alternative medicine for any health condition. If you're considering the use of any form of alternative medicine for fatty liver, make sure to consult your physician first. Self-treating a condition and avoiding or delaying standard care may have serious consequences.