The human liver plays numerous essential roles in the body, including producing bile, breaking down and removing toxic substances, storing glucose, and producing proteins.

One of the liver’s significant functions is metabolizing fats and turning them into energy or storing them as triglycerides for future use. However, when the liver is overwhelmed with fat, it loses its ability to function correctly, leading to a disease called non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

What is NAFLD?

NAFLD is a condition characterized by the buildup of excess fat in the liver of people who consume little or no alcohol.

This disease affects about 25% of adults globally, and it’s becoming increasingly common due to unhealthy lifestyles such as eating a high-fat diet, lack of physical activity, and obesity. In its early stages, NAFLD doesn’t cause any noticeable symptoms, but as it progresses, it can lead to more severe problems such as liver scarring, cirrhosis, and liver cancer.

How is NAFLD linked to heart health?

A recent study has found that NAFLD is linked to an increased risk of heart disease. Researchers have discovered that people who have fatty livers have a four times higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease.

The fat buildup in the liver causes it to release more triglycerides and inflammatory substances that can affect blood vessels and increase the risk of atherosclerosis, a condition where arteries become narrowed and damaged, posing a significant risk for heart attacks and stroke.

The impact of NAFLD on heart health

Research shows that the relationship between NAFLD and heart disease is more complicated than just fat accumulation in the liver. The disease can affect the heart and cardiovascular system in several ways, including:.

1. Insulin resistance:

NAFLD and insulin resistance go hand in hand. As the liver becomes overwhelmed with fat, it loses its ability to process insulin efficiently, causing blood sugar levels to rise.

High blood sugar levels can increase inflammation and oxidative stress, leading to damage and thickening of the arterial walls, and raising the risk of heart disease.

2. High blood pressure:

Having a fatty liver can also lead to high blood pressure. When the liver can’t metabolize fat effectively, it releases more triglycerides into the bloodstream, which can increase the levels of a hormone called aldosterone.

High levels of aldosterone can lead to fluid retention and high blood pressure, increasing the risk of heart disease.

3. Increased inflammation:

NAFLD can cause a chronic state of inflammation in the body. When the liver is overwhelmed with fat, it releases substances called cytokines and chemokines, which trigger an immune response that leads to inflammation.

Chronic inflammation can damage blood vessel walls, increasing the risk of atherosclerosis and heart disease.

4. Blood lipid abnormalities:

Having NAFLD can also cause abnormalities in blood lipids such as triglycerides and cholesterol.

When the liver can’t metabolize fat effectively, it releases more triglycerides into the bloodstream, which can raise the levels of “bad” cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein) and lower the levels of “good” cholesterol (high-density lipoprotein). These imbalances can increase the risk of heart disease.

Preventing NAFLD

The good news is that NAFLD is a preventable condition. Lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce the risk of liver fat buildup and heart disease. Here are some tips for preventing NAFLD:.

1. Adopt a healthy diet:

Avoid consuming foods high in saturated and trans fats. Instead, include more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats such as omega-3s in your diet.

2. Get regular exercise:

Physical activity can help reduce liver fat and prevent heart disease. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise daily, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming.

3. Maintain a healthy weight:

Being overweight or obese is a significant risk factor for NAFLD and heart disease. Losing weight can reduce liver fat buildup and improve heart health. Aim to achieve or maintain a healthy body mass index (BMI).

4. Limit alcohol consumption:

Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to liver damage and liver fat buildup. Therefore, it’s important to limit alcohol consumption and avoid binge drinking.

The bottom line

NAFLD is a common condition characterized by excess fat buildup in the liver. The disease is linked to an increased risk of heart disease, the leading cause of death worldwide. The good news is that NAFLD is a preventable condition.

By adopting a healthy lifestyle, you can reduce the risk of liver fat buildup, prevent heart disease and live a healthier life.