Fatty Liver Disease

Information about fatty liver disease, liver health, lifestyle changes, and reducing long-term liver risk.

Educational resources curated by Verra Health Clinic

Please note: This page is intended for general education only and does not replace medical advice from your healthcare provider.

What is fatty liver disease?

Fatty liver disease occurs when excess fat builds up in the liver. It is very common and is often linked with weight, insulin resistance, diabetes, high cholesterol, high triglycerides, or metabolic syndrome.

Many people with fatty liver disease feel completely well and only discover it after blood tests or an ultrasound. In some patients, however, fatty liver disease can progress over time and lead to inflammation, liver scarring (fibrosis), cirrhosis, or other liver complications.

Common causes and risk factors

Excess weight or obesity
Type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance
High cholesterol or high triglycerides
High blood pressure
Excess alcohol intake
Sleep apnea
Physical inactivity

The good news

In many patients, fatty liver disease can improve significantly with lifestyle changes. Even modest weight loss can help reduce liver fat and inflammation.

Improving blood sugar, cholesterol, triglycerides, blood pressure, sleep quality, and physical activity levels can also help reduce long-term liver risk.

Lifestyle changes that may help

Gradual and sustainable weight loss
Reducing sugary drinks and highly processed foods
Increasing vegetables, fibre, and lean protein intake
Regular physical activity and exercise
Reducing or avoiding alcohol intake
Managing diabetes, cholesterol, and blood pressure
Improving sleep and treating sleep apnea if present

Are there medications for fatty liver disease?

There is currently no single medication that cures fatty liver disease for everyone. In some patients, medications used for diabetes, weight management, cholesterol, or other metabolic conditions may indirectly help improve liver health.

Treatment is usually focused on improving underlying risk factors and preventing progression of liver disease.

When should I seek medical attention?

Persistent or worsening abdominal pain
Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
Vomiting blood or black stools
Increasing abdominal swelling
Confusion or severe illness
Significantly abnormal liver blood tests

Avoid starting supplements or “liver detox” products without discussing them with your healthcare provider, as some products may worsen liver injury or interact with medications.