|
|
Almost all the organs of the body contain some
fat. A normal liver contains about 5% fat. When
the amount of fat (lipids) in the liver exceeds
10%, healthy liver cells are replaced by fat
cells. This condition is known as "Fatty
Liver," which causes squeezing of the
blood, lymph vessels, and bile ducts, and enlarging
the liver. Known causes of fatty liver are alcohol
consumption, obesity, diabetes, chemicals, drugs,
malnutrition, and Vitamin A toxicity (The Merck
Manual).
The rest of the liver is made up of cells called
hepatocytes. The rupturing of fat hepatocytes
can produce inflammation. This leads to the
death of liver cells and the formation of fatty
cysts and/or scar tissue. The progression goes
from: fatty liver, inflammation, and chaos in
microcirculation, cell death, scar tissue, and
finally to liver failure.
The liver is the main organ responsible for
fat metabolism, glycogen storage for energy,
and formation of new cells. If the amount of
fat exceeds what the body requires, the fat
accumulates in the liver. If the amount of carbohydrates
exceeds what the body requires, the excess is
converted into fat, which then also accumulates
in the liver. The prevalence of fatty liver
is the result of a diet high in sugar, animal
fats, and alcohol, as well as a sedentary life
style.
Fatty liver occurs in alcoholics (see ''Alcoholic
Liver Disorders") and in non-drinkers.
Until recently, it was believed that in non-alcoholics,
a fatty liver was a consequence of being overweight
or diabetic. However, new scientific studies
have identified it as a separate disease with
potentially serious consequences. It is now
believed that 10-20% of non-drinkers that have
a fatty liver will develop cirrhosis.
As the function of the liver is impaired, several
conditions can occur:
• Toxic body: due to decreased cleansing
and detoxification.
• Diabetes: due to reduced formation and
storage of glycogen.
• Gastrointestinal disorders: due to slowed
bile formation and secretion.
A person with a fatty liver does not necessarily
seem ill. In fact, commonly there are no symptoms.
It can be present even when there is no evidence
of abnormalities on physical examination. Fat
accumulation is a gradual process that occurs
over many years. Eventually, the liver becomes
enlarged and can cause a vague discomfort in
the right upper abdomen. Severe fatty infiltration
of the liver can result in symptoms of weakness,
anorexia, nausea, and abdominal discomfort.
It is most important to treat the condition
before it can progress into a more serious form.
The statements made in this website
have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug
Administration. The products and procedures
presented at this website are not intended to
diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease
or illness, to prescribe any medication or to
be a substitute for medical treatment.
|
|
|
|
