Diabetes And Liver Health: Risks And Connections

Diabetes affects millions in a year, but people are aware only about how it affects blood sugar levels and not about liver health. Since the organ is responsible for metabolizing glucose and managing fats, there is a higher risk from diabetes complications.

The Between Diabetes And Liver Health

Do you have diabetes? If yes, you are prone to getting a liver disease. Here’s why?
1. Insulin Resistance: In the case of type 2 diabetes, cells of the body start resisting insulin action. This is followed by an increase in insulin, which begins depositing itself in the form of fat in the liver.
2. Hyperglycaemia: In this, blood glucose level reaches a point and overtime destroys cells and incites inflammation or fibrosis.
3. Obesity: Most of the type 2 diabetic patients are either overweight or obese. The state of obesity is closely linked with the development of fatty liver.

How Type 2 Diabetes Contributes To Liver Disease

Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)

NAFLD is the condition in which excess fat accumulates in the liver without alcohol consumption. It is the most prevalent liver disorder in patients affected by type 2 diabetes. In some cases, it causes non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, which leads to inflammation of the liver and eventually results in severe damage to the liver.

Hepatitis

There is a greater rate of chronic viral hepatitis, mostly hepatitis B and C in patients with diabetes. Treatment and complications related to the liver become more complex due to diabetes and hepatitis as they are interwoven together in a complex way.

Cirrhosis

Liver cirrhosis occurs through damaging of the organ for a long period with NAFLD or even any other form of hepatitis. Cirrhosis scars the liver tissue to the point that, sometimes the liver fails to function, causing complications.

Liver Cancer

Patients with diabetes, especially those with a history of liver disease, are prone to developing liver cancer. The prognosis is improved with monitoring and early detection.

Prevent Or Manage Liver Disease

Losing Weight

A healthy weight is the best care for the liver. Research has shown that losing 5 to 10% of body weight reduces the level of liver fat by 30% and enhances functioning. If you are overweight, you should consult a doctor or a nutritionist to develop a personalized plan for losing weight.

Healthy Eating

A well-balanced diet should consist of whole foods, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats for the good support of the health of the liver. Processed foods, sugary drinks, and saturated fats are to be minimized. Foods that contain low sugar content and high amounts of fiber regulate blood sugar levels and encourage the functioning of the liver.

Being Physically Active

Regular physical activity makes the body sensitive to insulin, which helps in weight control, and improves liver health. You should have at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise per week like brisk walking, swimming, and cycling.

Limiting Alcohol

Consumption of alcohol can harm the liver further. However, for those who suffer from diabetes, alcohol consumption exacerbates the condition. Limiting alcohol intake or abstaining from it can reduce the occurrence of liver disease.

Conclusion

This connection between diabetes and liver health is complicated, but one must know how to manage these diseases more effectively. Those suffering from diabetes have a higher risk of developing liver diseases that embrace NAFLD, hepatitis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. A healthy lifestyle change, like weight loss, following a well-balanced diet, maintaining regular physical activity, and reducing alcohol consumption can highly minimize the risk of liver complications.

FAQs On Diabetes And Liver Health

How does diabetes affect your liver?

Yes, it can lead to NAFLD, hepatitis or cirrhosis owing to complications such as insulin resistance and excess body fat paired with hyperglycemia.

How can I make my liver healthy again?

Maintain a healthy weight, follow a balanced diet, regular exercise and avoid alcohol. Regular medical check-ups will help monitor liver functioning.

Is sugar bad for your liver?

Too much sugar, especially from processed and sugary drinks, accumulates in the liver and might place a person at risk of a variety of liver diseases. Reducing sugar intake can help an individual better protect his or her liver, especially for those with diabetes.

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