New Delhi: The liver is the meatiest organ in the human body and it is responsible for storing and metabolising fat in the body. However, upon eating too much-saturated fat or drinking too much alcohol, this crucial organ is likely to suffer damage that can take a toll on normal functioning. Fatty liver disease, alcoholic or non-alcoholic, can progress to become cirrhosis if left untreated for too long. Although previously assumed to be a cause of concern among alcohol consumers, a study from the University of Hyderabad discovered that 84% of IT employees have a damaged liver, and most of them do not even know about it.
What are the risk factors for fatty liver disease?
The study from the University of Hyderabad found that Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Fatty Liver Disease (MAFLD) is an epidemic in the Indian IT sector. Furthermore, 71% of employees are clinically obese and 34% have high BP, diabetes, or high cholesterol. A lifestyle disorder, this one is largely blamed upon the following factors:
- Drinking 2 or more sugary drinks per week
- Sitting for more than 8 hours in a day
- Excessive belly fat – waist of over 90cm in men or 80cm in women
- Sleeping for less than 6 hours in a day
What happens when fatty liver is not treated?
Fatty liver is likely to progress silently till the disease goes out of control. And if not treated timely, fatty liver can result in the following complications:
- Scarring of the liver tissue known as fibrosis
- Cirrhosis or permanent damage of the liver
- Chronic inflammation and damage of the liver
- Liver cancer
How to protect the liver?
Experts, citing the study, strongly recommended not pulling all-nighters and following a healthy diet to lower the risk of long-term damage. Therefore, it is advised to follow these healthy tips:
- Eat more proteins
- Go for regular check-ups of liver health
- Fix your sleeping schedule
- Get exercise every hour
- Avoid refined carbs and sugar
The study from the University of Hyderabad found that Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Fatty Liver Disease (MAFLD) is an epidemic in the Indian IT sector. Furthermore, 71% of employees are clinically obese and 34% have high BP, diabetes, or high cholesterol. Health Conditions Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
