When people hear 'liver disease,' they immediately think of heavy alcohol consumption. But a massive health crisis is unfolding in India among people who have never touched a drop of alcohol: Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD).
A Liver Stuffed with Fat
NAFLD occurs when excess fat builds up in the liver cells. This is primarily driven by our modern urban lifestyle—specifically, diets high in refined carbohydrates and sugars (especially high-fructose corn syrup) combined with very little physical activity. Over time, the liver literally becomes engorged with fat, leading to inflammation and, eventually, scarring (cirrhosis).
Detection Requires More Than a Blood Test
While a Liver Function Test (LFT) can show elevated enzymes (like SGPT and SGOT) indicating liver stress, an LFT alone cannot definitively diagnose a fatty liver. The most reliable, non-invasive way to 'see' the fat is through an Ultrasound of the Abdomen.
The silver lining? In its early stages, fatty liver is completely reversible with sustained weight loss and dietary changes. If your LFT from BookMyPatho shows elevated enzymes, consult your doctor about getting a diagnostic ultrasound.
