Fatty liver disease goes by a scientific name called as ‘Steatosis’. It is a condition in which the excess fat gets accumulated in the liver cells. The optimum fat which is considered normal is 5%. If the fat exceeds 5% of the liver weight, it is considered abnormal and can often lead to unforeseen ailments. The presence of excessive fats can be attributed to a number of factors such as consumption of certain medications, alcohol consumption and other metabolic issues.
What are the types of fatty liver disease?
Following are some major types of fatty liver disease that are likely to cause major disruptions in liver functioning-
1. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
Also known as NAFLD, the non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is the kind of disease that is prevalent in people who consume little to no alcohol. The disease is associated with obesity and diabetes. It can gradually progress into NASH also known as Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, a condition in which the liver tissue is replaced by a scar tissue.
2. Alcoholic fatty liver disease
Owing to excessive alcohol consumption, a buildup of fat takes place in the liver which in turn leads to alcoholic fatty liver disease. This is the initial stage of alcohol-related liver disease. Liver is the organ responsible for breaking down alcohol. When a person starts consuming alcohol excessively, the liver is unable to function properly as excess alcohol hampers its functionality.
Why people resort to Ayurvedic treatment for fatty liver?
The world of Ayurveda offers a natural and holistic approach towards diseases and this goes way beyond just symptom management. Ayurveda addresses the major causes of liver dysfunction and also detoxifies the system. Following are the main reasons as to why people are more inclined towards Ayurveda for fatty liver-
· It follows a root-cause oriented approach
Fatty liver is the result of kapha and pitta imbalance and poor digestion. The world of Ayurveda not only focuses on correcting digestion but also eliminates toxins that puts a pressure on liver.
· Natural, plant-based remedies
Ayurvedic products make use of herbal formulations like Kalmegh, Punarnava, Triphala, Kutki, Bhumyamalaki etc which improve liver function and support detoxification.
· Minimal to no side effects
When taken under proper guidance, ayurvedic medicines are considered safe for use as they are derived from natural sources.
· Holistic treatment
Ayurveda takes into consideration a person’s body type, diet, metabolism and overall health.
The treatments include a combination of lifestyles changes and detox therapies.
What are the types of ayurvedic treatments for fatty liver?
If not treated at right time, the fatty liver disease can worsen over time. When this ailment interferes with the natural ability of liver to breakdown fats, it results in the inflammation of liver. Hence, it is important to monitor the liver health carefully and take treatment as soon as any kind of disruption occurs. Following are some major types of ayurvedic treatments for fatty liver-
1. Aushadhi Chikitsa
The common herbs used in aushadhi chikitsa are Kutki, Bhumyamalaki, Punarnava, Triphala and Kalmegh. Kutki is a liver stimulant that protects the overall wear and tear of the organ thereby preventing tissue damage. Kalmegh is a hepatoprotective herb that safeguards the vital functions of the liver, promotes metabolism and protects the liver from any kind of harmful effects. Punarnava reduces water retention thereby promoting a regular flow of fluids in the body. Triphala is the drug that detoxifies the gut.
2. Panchakarma therapy
Ayurveda focuses on eradicating the root causes of the ailments instead of providing medication for every ailment. It corrects the lifestyle so that the problems do not reoccur. Panchakarma follows a five-step approach and detoxifies both, the body as well as the mind. Following are the five steps that panchakarma follows-
· Vamaa- This step focuses on removing the toxins in the body by ingesting the medicines first and then removing the toxins by using herbal remedies. It is also known as therapeutic vomiting.
· Purgation- In this process, the medicines accumulate the lower part of the body and after the cleaning process is completed, the removal of waste happens through bowel movement.
· Basti- In this step, medicinal herbs are ingested in the patients by injecting herbal decoctions in the rectum.
· Nasya- This steps helps in balancing the hormones and this detoxifies the upper respiratory tract.
· Raktamokshan- This process cleanses the impurities in the blood.
3. Dietary therapy
Also known as Ahara Chikitsa, dietary therapy plays a pivotal role in the management of fatty liver disease. Some of the key aspects of dietary therapy are as follows-
· Healthy eating
It is recommended to consume diet that is rich in vegetables, fruits and whole grains.
· Reduced intake of some foods
If one is dealing with the consequences of fatty liver disease, it is advisable to limit or avoid consuming processed foods and saturated fats.
· Fiber intake
Foods that have high-fiber aid in weight management.
4. Lifestyle management
Also known as Vihara chikitsa, it is crucial to make lifestyle modifications for preventing fatty liver disease. It includes practices such as avoiding alcohol, exercising regularly, stress management and maintaining a healthy diet.
Engaging in moderate activity helps improve insulin sensitivity and this supports metabolism and liver health.
5. Yoga and pranayama
The key to reversing fatty liver is embracing a healthy lifestyle. Adhering to a yoga routine helps promote overall well-being of the liver. Some of the yoga poses that supports digestion and improves liver function are as follows-
· Cobra pose
Also known as Bhujangasana, this pose promotes detoxification and also stimulates liver function. Sticking to a fix schedule may help ne reducing fat deposits in the liver.
· Bow pose
Bow pose improves blood circulation and also strengthens digestive processes. This asana helps increase blood flow to the liver.
· Ardha matsyendrasana
Famously known as the Half Lord of the Fishes Pose, ardha matsyendrasana pose is a yoga posture that is extremely beneficial for supporting liver health. It also improves digestion and also promotes overall metabolic health.
· Kapalbhati
This powerful abdominal breathing exercise helps stimulate the liver and improves its functionality. An increased circulation of oxygen helps the metabolism of fat deposits in the body.
These are some of the Ayurvedic treatments for fatty liver.