If you have fatty liver disease (NAFLD), your risk of developing diabetes is much higher than someone who doesn’t. With November being national diabetes month, we want to take this opportunity to talk about the link between fatty liver disease and diabetes. You can learn all you need to know about this connection in our blog below!
Diabetes and NAFLD Go Hand-in-Hand
November may be national diabetes month, but we shouldn’t forget about another epidemic that often goes hand-in-hand with diabetes: fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Around 80% of people with type 2 diabetes also have fatty liver disease, which can significantly worsen the effects of diabetes. While excess fat in the liver can occur for a variety of reasons, for those with diabetes, it’s often a result of long-term high blood sugar levels. When the body can’t properly process sugars, they can accumulate in the liver and lead to inflammation and scarring. This combination of fat and damage can result in serious health consequences such as liver failure or even cancer. Diabetes and fatty liver disease are two highly preventable health issues, yet they continue to plague us. So, how do we combat this potentially deadly combo?
Prevention: The Importance of Lifestyle Changes
The best way to combat diabetes and fatty liver disease are through a healthy diet and regular exercise. This may sound like a cliche, but it truly is the gold standard for improving metabolic health. Focus on whole, unprocessed foods and limit saturated fats and added sugars. Don’t be afraid of carbs, just make sure they come from complex sources such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Be sure you don’t skimp out on physical activity – aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week. If you need help getting started, consider meeting with a nutritionist or enrolling in a structured weight loss program. After all, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure!
It’s also important to limit alcohol consumption and monitor medication use, as these can contribute to fatty liver disease. Last but certainly not least, don’t forget to continue checking your blood sugar levels and attending regular check-ups with your doctor to stay ahead of unnecessary complications. By making simple changes to our diet and exercise habits, we can drastically reduce our risk for both diseases. every step we take towards a healthier lifestyle is one step closer to potentially avoiding these debilitating conditions. So, let’s ditch the excuses and get active – our waistlines and livers will thank us!
There’s no need to worry about your liver when Synergy Healthcare offers FREE fibroscans! Schedule your free liver scan today and receive a liver evaluation along with a $50 gift card. Visit our website or call us at (941) 896 – 4948 to book your consultation!
Resources:
https://www.healthline.com/health/fatty-liver-disease-and-diabete
