Heart disease and kidney disease may come to mind first when you think of chronic diseases brought on by Type 2 diabetes. But diabetes can raise your risk for another chronic condition you may not think about much—fatty liver disease.
What Is Fatty Liver Disease?
One form of fatty liver disease is known as alcoholic fatty liver disease. As its name suggests, it’s most common in people who drink alcohol heavily. Another form of liver disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), occurs frequently in people who have Type 2 diabetes.
Scientists believe that the inflammation experienced by people with diabetes can lead to extra fibrosis (scarring) in the liver. Additionally, advanced fibrosis paired with poor glucose absorption may lead to cancerous cells forming in the liver.
Early NAFLD has few symptoms, meaning it can advance without your knowing. But in its later stages, NAFLD may result in:
- Enlarged liver
- Exhaustion
- Jaundice
- Fibrosis (scarring) of your liver
One study found that more than 12% of people with diabetes eventually died of liver disease. According to an article in Diabetes Care, the journal of the American Diabetes Association, “Diabetes, by most estimates, is now the most common cause of liver disease in the U.S.”
How Dangerous Is Fatty Liver Disease?
Your liver plays an essential role in filtering toxins out of your bloodstream. Fatty liver disease can lead to late-stage scarring of the liver (cirrhosis), meaning the liver has to work harder to help purify your blood. NAFLD may also result in cancer and death.
I Have Diabetes. How Can I Avoid Fatty Liver Disease?
Making lifestyle changes can help people with diabetes avoid NAFLD and reduce their risk of liver damage. Steps you can take include:
- Get vaccinations for diseases that could damage your liver, such as hepatitis A and B
- Eat nutritious foods that are low in sugar, including plenty of fruits and vegetables
- Exercise regularly
- Lose excess weight
Even if you have already developed NAFLD, these changes can help you manage your condition and live a healthier life.
