Home Remedies for Fatty Liver Disease

Home care cannot cure fatty liver, but daily habits are the main treatment. Most of what helps is lifestyle.

What helps

• Gradual weight loss. Losing 7 to 10 percent of body weight can reduce liver fat and inflammation. Aim for about 0.5 to 1 kg a week, not crash dieting.
• Daily activity. Aim for at least 150 minutes of brisk walking or similar activity a week, plus some muscle-strengthening.
• Cut sugary drinks such as soft drinks, packaged juices and sweetened chai or lassi.
• Limit refined carbohydrates and fried food. Prefer whole grains, vegetables, pulses and fruit.
• Avoid alcohol, or follow your doctor's advice.
• Sleep well and manage stress.
• Coffee in moderation is associated in studies with better liver health, but it is not a treatment.
• Check blood sugar, cholesterol and blood pressure regularly.

What to avoid

• "Liver detox" teas, powders and cleanses. They are not proven and some can injure the liver.
• Herbal or supplement products sold as liver cures. Several herbal products have been linked to liver injury.
• Rapid weight loss, fasting extremes or very low calorie diets, which can worsen liver inflammation.
• Painkillers or other medicines on your own. Ask your doctor first.

Useful habits

• Walk after meals
• Keep a weekly weight and waist record
• Plan meals with a plate of vegetables first

See a doctor if

Jaundice, swelling, black stools, vomiting blood or confusion occurs. Call 112 or 102 for emergencies.