The Scope and Strategies for Treatment and Prevention
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is one of the most common liver conditions worldwide, and the numbers continue to grow.1 In the US, MASLD is estimated to affect nearly 30% of the population. Still, even this may be an underestimate as there are typically no definite symptoms that can be attributed to fat accumulation in the liver.2 The rise in MASLD parallels the rise in metabolic diseases such as obesity, insulin resistance, high blood pressure, and cholesterol, which all share similar root causes and methods for treatment.
Approximately 20-30% of those with MASLD will progress to the more serious form, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis or MASH.3 MASH indicates that injury has started to occur in the liver, which can continue progressing, resulting in scar tissue, cirrhosis, and liver cancer.
Don't worry, there is good news!
There are many steps you can take to reduce the risk of progression. Your Care Team will work with you on this journey to identify personalized interventions that will put you on a path to improved metabolic health. Areas you will explore include:
Healthy Weight Loss
Achieving a healthy weight is a critical step in managing MASLD. Losing excess weight can reduce the fat buildup in your liver and improve its function. In fact, even a 3-5% weight loss can decrease fat accumulation in the liver.
Nutrition
Small improvements in nutrition can go a long way in treating metabolic liver disease and preventing progression. The Mediterranean diet is the most commonly recommended and likely easiest-to-follow dietary plan. This plan limits the intake of refined carbohydrates, sugar-sweetened beverages, and fructose, all of which are known to contribute to metabolic dysfunction.
Exercise
When it comes to metabolic health, exercise is essential. In fact, exercise has liver benefits even without a single pound of weight loss.
Reducing Exposure to Environmental Toxins
Minimizing exposure to harmful environmental toxins and endocrine-disrupting chemicals is also important for liver health. Your Care Team will help you identify potential chemicals and pollutants in your surroundings and take steps to reduce your exposure where possible.
Stress Management
Chronic stress can exacerbate metabolic dysfunction. Learning stress management techniques like meditation, mindfulness or deep breathing, can benefit your mental well-being and liver health.
Sleep
Quality sleep is essential for overall health, including your liver. Aim for 7-9 hours of restful sleep each night to support your body's metabolic processes.
Your Gut Microbiome
Emerging research suggests that the health of your gut bacteria, known as the gut microbiome, may influence MASLD. Your Care Team will explore strategies to promote a balanced and healthy gut microbiome as part of your personalized plan.
*References available in PDF download*