Understanding Fatty Liver Disease and Effective Exercises

Fatty liver disease is becoming a significant health issue, impacting millions around the world. One prevalent type is metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), previously referred to as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). This condition is often linked to unhealthy diets, obesity, and a lack of physical activity, and it can progress to liver inflammation, scarring, or even cirrhosis if not addressed. Dr. Wendi LeBrett, a gastroenterologist from California with dual board certifications, has shared some exercise recommendations that may help in both preventing and improving fatty liver disease.

What Is Fatty Liver?

The liver is the largest organ in the body, playing a crucial role in digestion, energy storage, and detoxification. In fatty liver disease, excess fat builds up in the liver, compromising its function over time. There are primarily two types:

• Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), also known as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
• Alcoholic fatty liver disease, which is also referred to as alcoholic steatohepatitis

Symptoms of Fatty Liver Disease

Often termed a “silent” disease, fatty liver may not show symptoms in the early stages, making it difficult to diagnose unless detected during tests for other conditions. As the disease advances, some symptoms may emerge, including:

• A dull or aching pain in the upper right abdomen (under the lower right rib cage)
• Fatigue
• Unexplained weight loss
• General weakness

Best Exercises for Fatty Liver Disease

Dr. LeBrett has highlighted the crucial role of exercise in managing fatty liver disease. In a recent Instagram video, she noted that “one in four Americans will develop fatty liver,” stressing that insulin resistance significantly contributes to this condition. She pointed out the need to control insulin resistance through regular exercise.

“Building muscle mass is essential for reducing insulin resistance; it should be a priority for anyone with or at risk of fatty liver,” she advised. Surprisingly, many people often associate exercise solely with cardio, especially given the correlation between weight gain and fatty liver. While cardio helps with weight loss, Dr. LeBrett believes muscle-building is more critical. Her recommendation? Focus on weight-bearing exercises over cardio.

Such exercises might include walking, running, jumping, dancing, and using weights or resistance bands for training moves like squats, lunges, and push-ups.

In addition to exercise, adopting lifestyle changes—like maintaining a balanced diet low in refined sugars and processed carbs—can aid in reversing fatty liver disease. Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider are also important to track progress and prevent complications.