Fatty liver disease management and metabolic risk factors

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, now increasingly referred to as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), is a widespread chronic condition affecting approximately one-quarter of the global adult population. While often linked to excess weight, the condition can also affect individuals of normal weight due to metabolic imbalances, genetics, and alterations in the intestinal microbiota.

Fatty liver occurs when the liver converts excess energy—particularly from simple sugars and saturated fats—into triglycerides, which then accumulate in liver cells. If left unmanaged, this can progress from simple steatosis to more severe stages such as steatohepatitis, fibrosis, and cirrhosis.

Because the liver is the body’s primary detoxification organ, experts suggest that managing the condition relies on addressing root causes through lifestyle changes rather than specialized detox products. The Mediterranean diet is recommended as a scientifically approved model. Key dietary interventions include reducing sugary beverages, industrial sweets, and alcohol, while increasing the intake of whole grains, seasonal vegetables, legumes, oily fish, and extra virgin olive oil to help regulate sugar absorption.