Ayurvedic Diet and Lifestyle Changes to Cure Fatty Liver

Food to Avoid

To promote liver health and manage fatty liver disease, avoiding certain foods is crucial. Steering clear of saturated fats, processed items, sugary treats, and excessive alcohol can play a pivotal role in supporting liver function and overall well-being.

• Processed Foods: Stay away from highly processed foods, as they often contain unhealthy trans fats and high levels of added sugars.
• Highly Processed Grains: Limit consumption of refined grains like white bread, white rice, and pasta. Opt for whole grains instead.
• Alcohol: Excessive alcohol intake is a major contributor to fatty liver disease. If you have any form of liver disease, it’s crucial to either eliminate or significantly reduce alcohol consumption.
• Highly Sugary Foods and Beverages: In addition to the obvious sources of added sugars like candies and regular soda, be cautious of hidden sugars in various processed foods and beverages.
• Excessive Salt: A high-sodium diet can contribute to fluid retention and may worsen liver function. Limit your intake of salty foods.
• Artificial Sweeteners: Some studies suggest that artificial sweeteners may negatively impact liver health, so it’s wise to moderate their consumption.
• Fried Foods: Besides palm and coconut oils, try to avoid fried foods in general. They can be high in unhealthy fats.
• Fast Food: Fast food is often high in saturated and trans fats, salt, and sugar. It’s best to limit or avoid it.
• Excessive Red Meat: While you mentioned red meat, it’s worth emphasising that even lean cuts should be consumed in moderation. Opt for sources of protein like fish, poultry, and plant-based alternatives.
• High-Fructose Corn Syrup: Apart from avoiding sugary items, specifically steer clear of products containing high-fructose corn syrup, which is associated with various health issue

Food to Include

It’s crucial for individuals with fatty liver disease to choose the right fats to manage their condition effectively. Opting for healthy fats is essential in maintaining overall health and addressing insulin resistance, a common issue in fatty liver disease. Insulin plays a vital role in glucose utilisation, but in cases of insulin resistance, glucose accumulates in the bloodstream, leading to increased fat production in the liver. By incorporating healthy fats such as those found in fish, nuts, and olive oil, individuals can support insulin sensitivity and work towards mitigating the progression of fatty liver disease.

Optimal Food Choices:

Include the following in your diet for liver health:

• Fish and Seafood: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, known for their anti-inflammatory properties.
• Fruits: Provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
• Whole Grains: Choose options like brown rice and whole wheat for fibre and nutrients.
• Nuts: Incorporate almonds and walnuts for healthy fats, fibre, and antioxidants.
• Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil as a primary cooking oil for its monounsaturated fats.
• Vegetables: Include a variety of colourful vegetables for diverse nutrients.
• Avocados: Rich in monounsaturated fats, vitamins, and minerals.
• Legumes: Beans, lentils, and chickpeas offer plant-based protein and fibre.

 Lifestyle Changes:

• Regular Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity to promote weight management and improve insulin sensitivity. Activities like brisk walking, yoga, and aerobic exercises are beneficial.
• Manage Stress: Practise stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, and mindfulness. Chronic stress can impact liver health, so incorporating relaxation practices is essential.
• Maintain a Regular Eating Schedule: Establish a consistent eating routine with regular meal times. Avoiding irregular or excessive eating can support proper digestion and metabolism.
• Avoid Alcohol: Completely abstain from alcohol consumption, as it can exacerbate liver damage. Alcohol is a known contributor to fatty liver disease, and its elimination is crucial for treatment.
• Individualised Approach: Ayurvedic treatment is highly personalised. Consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner to create a customised plan based on your unique constitution (dosha) and specific imbalances.
• Regular Monitoring: Regularly monitor your liver function and follow up with healthcare professionals to track progress and make necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.

Types Of Fatty Liver

Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD):

• Simple Fatty Liver: This form involves the accumulation of fat in the liver without inflammation or damage to the liver cells. It is the most common type of NAFLD.
•  Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH): In this form, there is inflammation in the liver, leading to potential serious issues such as fibrosis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. NASH can progress to liver failure, necessitating a liver transplant. Approximately 20% of people with NAFLD develop NASH.

Alcohol-Related Fatty Liver Disease (ALD):

This type is caused by excessive alcohol consumption.

Enlarged Liver: Often asymptomatic, but it may cause pain or discomfort in the upper right side of the abdomen.

Alcoholic Hepatitis: Characterised by liver swelling, symptoms include fever, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and jaundice.

Alcoholic Cirrhosis: Involves the buildup of scar tissue in the liver, leading to symptoms similar to alcoholic hepatitis.

Other Symptoms: Include fluid buildup in the belly (ascites), high blood pressure in the liver, bleeding in the body, confusion, changes in behaviour, enlarged spleen, and potentially fatal liver failure.

Recommended Yoga Poses for Fatty Liver

While yoga alone may not be a cure for fatty liver disease, it can be a beneficial complement to a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise. Yoga can help improve flexibility, reduce stress, and promote overall well-being. Here are some yoga poses that may be beneficial for individuals with fatty liver disease:

• Mountain Pose (Tadasana): Improves posture and alignment, supporting better liver function.
• Twisting Poses (e.g., Bharadvajasana): Stimulate abdominal organs, including the liver. Practice twists mindfully, avoiding over-twisting.
• Seated Forward Bend (Paschimottanasana): Stretches the spine and stimulates the liver.
• Bridge Pose (Setu Bandhasana): Strengthens back muscles and enhances blood circulation to abdominal organs.
• Child’s Pose (Balasana): A relaxing pose to reduce stress, contributing to overall liver health.
• Cobra Pose (Bhujangasana): Strengthens back muscles and stimulates abdominal organs.
• Downward-Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana): Inversion pose improving blood circulation, potentially benefiting the liver.
• Cat-Cow Pose (Marjaryasana-Bitilasana): Dynamic flow that massages abdominal organs and enhances spinal flexibility.
• Warrior Poses (Virabhadrasana I and II): Strengthen legs, open chest, and promote better overall circulation.
• Corpse Pose (Savasana): A final relaxation pose that reduces stress and fosters a sense of calm.

Remember to practise yoga mindfully, listening to your body, and avoiding poses that cause discomfort or pain. Regular physical activity, a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy weight are essential components of managing fatty liver disease.

Fatty Liver Ayurvedic Treatment at Dheemahi Ayurveda

Dheemahi Ayurveda places a primary focus on promoting patient health and well-being through a dedicated team of expert doctors and a steadfast commitment to traditional Ayurvedic principles. Their approach involves regular consultations, consistent follow-up check-ups, and active doctor supervision during therapeutic sessions, particularly for chronic conditions. A noteworthy aspect of their holistic healthcare strategy is the recognition of the interconnectedness of mental and physical well-being, underscoring the importance of the mind in achieving a healthy life.

The distinctive strength of Dheemahi Ayurveda lies in blending the wisdom accumulated over the past five generations with contemporary healthcare practices. This integration results in a comprehensive and personalised approach to patient care. The meticulous documentation of treatment schedules adds an element of transparency and accountability to the healthcare process. Dheemahi Ayurveda is unwavering in its dedication to delivering authentic and effective Ayurvedic treatments, with a keen awareness of tailoring these treatments to meet the unique needs of each individual patient.