10 natural treatments for fatty liver.
What is fatty liver?
If first let us understand what is fatty liver. Excess fat gets stored in the liver cells. It is normal to have some amount of fat in the liver, but the fatty liver disease occurs when the amount of fat exceeds ten percent of the weight of the liver. In such a situation, the liver becomes unable to function normally and causes many symptoms. After this, treatment of fatty liver is needed.
Usually, its symptoms are seen in the late hours, but the accumulation of excess fat in the liver becomes harmful for a long time. It is usually seen at the age of 40-60 years. In Ayurveda, the relation of the liver with pitta has been told, that is, due to the contamination of bile, the liver becomes diseased and is unable to perform its function well.
Contaminated bile gives rise to diseases like fatty liver. Due to improper diet, toxins start accumulating in the liver, due to which the liver has to work more than normal. Due to this, there is inflammation in the liver, which necessitates the treatment of fatty liver.
10 home remedies for fatty liver disease.
1. Apple Cider Vinegar:
Apple Cider Vinegar is one of the best home remedies to cure fatty liver, thanks to its amazing detoxification properties. ACV works by flushing out the harmful toxins from your liver, which disrupt its functioning. A study reveals that Apple Cider Vinegar can cause weight loss and a significant reduction in the lipid profile levels in the blood (1). It can also reduce inflammation and promotes the overall health of the liver.
2. Lemon:
Lemon is another best natural remedy for alcoholic Fatty Liver. A study has revealed the astonishing benefits of lemon in reducing the harmful effects of this disease. It is known that lemon has a hepatoprotective impact on the alcohol-induced fatty liver and helps bring down lipid profile levels (2). Also, it is rich in Vitamin C, which is a powerful antioxidant that can prevent free radical damage to the liver cells.
3. Turmeric:
Turmeric is one of the best Indian home remedies for fatty liver. It contains a chemical called Curcumin which can protect liver cells from NAFLD (Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease) when taken in recommended doses (3). The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of this ingredient can bring down the inflammation of liver cells and prevent oxidative stress by combating free radicals.
4. Indian Gooseberry:
Indian Gooseberry or Amla is the best Ayurvedic remedy for fatty liver. Being a rich source of Vitamin C, antioxidant fruit helps in cleansing the liver of toxins and protects it from further damage. According to a study, Amla contains a photochemical called Quercetinm which can reduce oxidative stress on the liver cells and protect the organ from alcohol-induced fatty liver disease (4). Amla also has many enzymes that can curb fat cells and promoting better digestion.
5. Cinnamon:
Cinnamon is one of the most effective natural remedies for fatty liver disease. Research was conducted to prove the efficacy of Cinnamon, in which 1.5 gms of this spice was given to patients for 12 weeks, who have shown reduced insulin resistance and hyperlipidemia (too many lipids in the blood) (5). The strong anti-inflammatory properties of this agent bring down the inflammation of the liver caused due to excess alcohol consumption.
6. Milk Thistle:
One of the herbal home remedies for treating fatty liver is Milk Thistle. Also called Silymarin, this herb has Hepatoprotective effects which benefit patients sufferings from the condition. A 2014 study suggests that Milk thistle can inhibit free radicals that lead to toxicity with its powerful antioxidants and flavonoids (6). Also, Milk Thistle helps in the production of enzymes that detox the liver. However, you must take the advice of a doctor before consuming it.
7. Flax Seeds:
Flax seeds are not only good for digestion but also offer protection from fatty liver. According to a study, Flax seeds have shown improvement in patients suffering from NAFLD by reducing weight, blood lipid levels, insulin resistance and inflammatory tissues (7). Also, Flax seeds are a rich source of fatty acids that combat oxidative stress on cells and lower hepatic damage. No wonder why it is considered as one of the best home remedies for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
8. Green Tea:
Green tea is a healthy beverage and also the best natural cure for fatty liver. According to a study, green tea was found to be effective in reducing liver enzymes and inflammation in the organ, when combined with other supplements (8). Experts attribute this to the high amount of polyphenols and flavonoids in green tea, which reduce oxidative stress and overall fat content in the body.
9. Dandelion Tea:
Dandelion is a commonly found garden weed that has yellow flowers. Recent studies show that Dandelion tea can treat non-alcoholic fatty liver disease induced by a high-fat diet (9). This is because Dandelions contain powerful bioactive compounds that can lower cholesterol levels in the body. Also, certain antioxidants like beta-carotene present in this agent can reduce cell damage. Other studies reveal that dandelion has anti-inflammatory chemicals which can reduce inflammation in the liver. This is why it is considered to be one of the home remedies to reduce fatty liver.
10. Citrus Fruits.
Ah, the power of warm water with lemon squeezed into it! It does not only help you lose weight but can aid in detoxification too. The entire lemon family cannot be ignored. In fact, the more the merrier. Lemons, limes, and grapefruits are all extremely potent sources of vitamin C and are brimming with antioxidants. Try to include more of them into your diet to boost enzyme production, which leads to liver detoxification.