Myths VS Facts - NAFLD and NASH

What are the top 5 myths about NAFLD and NASH?

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) are two interrelated liver conditions that have become increasingly common due to the global rise in obesity and type 2 diabetes. Despite their growing prevalence, there are many misconceptions about these diseases.

Here are the top five myths about NAFLD and NASH, along with explanations as to why they are myths:

Myth 1: Only heavy drinkers develop liver diseases.

Fact: NAFLD and NASH are non-alcoholic liver diseases, which means that they can occur in people who consume little to no alcohol. They are primarily associated with obesity, insulin resistance, and metabolic syndrome. While excessive alcohol consumption can lead to liver disease (alcoholic fatty liver disease or alcoholic steatohepatitis), NAFLD and NASH can develop in people who are not heavy drinkers.

Myth 2: NAFLD and NASH are the same thing.

Fact: While both conditions involve fat accumulation in the liver, they represent different stages of liver disease. NAFLD is a more general term for the presence of fat in the liver, whereas NASH is a more severe form of NAFLD, characterized by inflammation and liver cell damage. NASH can progress to cirrhosis and liver failure, while simple fatty liver (NAFLD without inflammation) typically has a more benign course.

Myth 3: If you have NAFLD or NASH, you will always have symptoms.

Fact: Many people with NAFLD or NASH experience no symptoms, especially in the early stages. As the disease progresses, some individuals may experience fatigue, abdominal discomfort, or other nonspecific symptoms, but the majority of people with NAFLD or NASH are asymptomatic. This is why it is essential to have regular checkups and blood tests to detect liver abnormalities before symptoms appear.

Myth 4 : Only overweight or obese individuals can develop NAFLD and NASH.

Fact: While obesity is a significant risk factor for both NAFLD and NASH, lean individuals can also develop these conditions. Factors such as genetics, insulin resistance, and metabolic syndrome can contribute to the development of NAFLD and NASH, even in people with normal body weight.

Myth 5: There is no treatment for NAFLD and NASH.

Fact: Although there are no specific medications approved for NAFLD or NASH, lifestyle modifications such as weight loss, exercise, and a healthy diet can be effective in managing these conditions. In some cases, medications to manage underlying risk factors like diabetes, hypertension, or high cholesterol may be prescribed.

For more advanced stages of the disease, like cirrhosis or liver failure, liver transplantation may be considered. Ongoing research and clinical trials are also exploring new treatment options for NAFLD and NASH.

It's important to recognize that NAFLD and NASH are not solely related to alcohol consumption, can have different clinical implications, may not cause noticeable symptoms, can affect lean individuals, and can be managed through lifestyle modifications and appropriate medical care.

For more information about NAFLD and NASH, visit our website at: www.fattyliver.ca.