Fatty liver/NASH & weight loss

Fatty liver/NASH is the accumulation of fat in the liver cells. Even though it is normal to have a small amount of fat in these cells, the liver is considered fatty if more than 5% of it is fat.

A number of fatty liver conditions fall under the broad category of non-alcoholic liver disease (NAFLD), which is the most common liver disease in adults in Western countries

Non-alcoholic fatty liver (NAFL) is the initial, reversible stage of liver disease. Unfortunately, it often goes undiagnosed. Over time, NAFL may lead to a more serious liver condition known as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis or NASH.

NASH involves greater fat accumulation and inflammation that damages the liver cells. This can lead to fibrosis, or scar tissue, as liver cells are repeatedly injured and die off.

NAFLD is also linked to an increased risk of other diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, and kidney disease.

Weight loss is the primary therapy for most patients with Fatty Liver/NASH/NAFLD.

Weight loss can lead to an improvement in liver biochemical tests, liver histology, serum insulin levels, and quality of life in patients with NAFLD. Weight loss may reduce fat in the liver, inflammation, and fibrosis.

Losing weight may prevent injury to liver cells and in some cases may reverse it and it requires a team effort under the guidance of weight loss specialist in Chandler, Dr. Arpita Surkunte.

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The program includes

Physician consultation

• Physical exam, including measurement of the waist to screen for visceral adiposity and body composition analysis
• Review of medical history including medications
• Assessment of medical conditions (lab blood work and other tests as needed) including: insulin resistance, metabolic disease, heart disease risk, kidney function, liver function, thyroid function, uric acid, early signs of diabetes, electrolytes, vitamin levels and cholesterol abnormalities

Physician-developed plan and counseling

• Nutrition
• Exercise and activity
• Recommendations for medication and/or supplements as needed
• Follow-up appointment(s) for the ongoing monitoring of medical conditions including the adjustment of medications you take for diabetes, blood pressure, cholesterol and other conditions.

Note: Blood work is through your insurance or at an additional cost.