A fatty liver diet is a fat-restricted menu, especially meant for people with a fatty liver disease. A fatty liver is one in which fat gets accumulated in the liver itself, to reduce this one needs to follow a strict low-fat diet.
The liver is the largest organ in the human body, that regulates fat metabolism and is also responsible for fat-burning in the body. Besides metabolism, the other liver functions are detoxification, producing necessary chemicals for digestion, etc. When the liver cells accumulate fat, the condition is known as fatty liver, and is a condition common in overweight people above the age of 30.
When fat makes 10% or more of the liver, the liver is called a fatty liver. This happens because the liver is unable to break down fat at its regular rate, which leads to its accumulation. Obesity, drug or alcohol consumption, and some health issues like diabetes and malnutrition can cause a fatty liver. People who have been diagnosed with this condition should eat a healthy diet, and gradually try and lose weight. This can be done by following a specific diet routine.
Diet Plan
There is no specific treatment by which one can treat fatty liver. If the cause is alcohol consumption, one has to stop consuming alcohol. Moreover, if the underlying cause is obesity, one has to reduce one’s body weight and prevent further fattening. Certain foods like white bread, white rice, cereals and concentrated sugar are high glycemic foods that raise blood sugar quickly. People with fatty liver condition should eat foods that are high in fiber, low in saturated fat and low in calories. Moreover, the calories should not exceed 30% of the total calories. By consuming low fat foods, one can reverse the symptoms naturally.
Grains and Breads
Whole bran bread, whole wheat crackers, quinoa, brown rice, bulgur wheat, kidney beans, etc., can be consumed. Among breads, white bread should be avoided.
Meats, Vegetables, and Fruits
One can have skinless chicken/turkey, lean beef, veal, lean rabbit, or lean fish. One should avoid red meats, bacon, pork, hotdogs, cold cuts, fat fish such as tuna and salmon. Also limit the amount of dairy products consumed such as milk, butter, cheese, margarine, and cream. Egg yolks should not be consumed, while the albumin or egg white can be had twice a week. Instead include lots of fresh vegetables and fruits.
Lean Protein
Lean meats, beans, soybeans, and sea food contain lean protein that can be consumed.
Dessert
People diagnosed with this condition should replace sugary desserts with fresh, healthy fruit. Moreover, people suffering from diabetes should maintain a diabetic diet. Diabetics find it slightly more difficult to control their fatty liver problem, because they have to be extra careful and ingest only low sugar foods.
Beverages
Vegetable soup (potato, broccoli, pepper, carrot) is good for people with fatty liver. Cabbage soup should be excluded from the list of permitted soups. Moreover, one should not have chicken soup or broth. Fish, mushroom, beef soups should also be avoided. Alcohol and sodas must be completely avoided. One can have them occasionally, but having them regularly is not permitted.
While preparing the food, avoid fats and too much oil. Avoid eating fried and fatty foods. Use olive in your food as it has several health benefits. Avoid saturated fats completely. Moreover, keep a tab on your daily calorie intake. Exercise regularly, so as to burn off excess fat.
Eliminating alcohol from the diet, and following a dietary fat restriction by consuming a restricted menu can help alleviate the condition. This will prevent occurrence of grave situations such as liver cirrhosis or liver transplant. However, having said that, it is important to remember that one should not be eager to lose weight too quickly, as it could worsen the condition. Fat elimination is a slow and gradual process, which may take about 6 months or more. Thus, patience and lifestyle changes is the key!
Disclaimer: This HealthHearty article is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert advice.
