Does Fatty Liver Cause Weight Gain?

Fatty liver disease is one of the most common diseases in the Western world, yet many people are unaware they have it. The disease can cause major health problems down the road, but does a fatty liver cause weight gain?

If you’re concerned for your health and have recently gained weight, you might be curious about the state of your liver. Read below to learn more about the connection between your liver and your weight and what you can do about it.

What Exactly is Fatty Liver?

First things first, let's talk about fatty liver. As the name suggests, it's a condition characterized by the accumulation of fat in the liver cells. 

A little fat in the liver is normal and nothing to worry about. But when things get out of hand and fat starts piling up, it can lead to fatty liver disease.

There are two main types of fatty liver disease:

• Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD): This is the most common type and typically occurs in people who drink little to no alcohol. It's often associated with obesity, insulin resistance, and metabolic syndrome.

• Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (AFLD): As the name suggests, this type is caused by excessive alcohol consumption. Over time, heavy drinking can take a toll on the liver, leading to fatty liver disease and more serious conditions like cirrhosis.

Does Fatty Liver Cause Weight Gain?

Now, let's address the burning question: does fatty liver cause weight gain? Well, it's a little complicated. While fatty liver and weight gain often go hand in hand, it's not always clear which comes first.

Fatty Liver and Weight Gain

Research suggests that having excess fat in the liver may contribute to weight gain and obesity. When the liver is overwhelmed with fat, it becomes less efficient at metabolizing nutrients and regulating hormones that control appetite and metabolism. This can lead to a vicious cycle where weight gain exacerbates fatty liver, and fatty liver worsens weight gain.

Obesity and Fatty Liver

On the flip side, obesity and weight gain are major risk factors for developing fatty liver disease. Excess body fat, especially visceral fat around the abdomen, increases the likelihood of fat accumulation in the liver. 

As the liver becomes fattier, it can further disrupt metabolism and contribute to weight gain.

The Role of Insulin Resistance in Fatty Liver

Another role player that answers the question, does fatty liver cause weight gain, is insulin resistance. This occurs when the body's cells become less responsive to insulin, a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels. 

Insulin resistance is closely linked to both fatty liver disease and weight gain.

Here's how it works:

• Fatty Liver and Insulin Resistance: Excess fat in the liver can interfere with insulin signaling, leading to insulin resistance. When cells become resistant to insulin, they're less able to take up glucose from the bloodstream, which can lead to high blood sugar levels and eventually type 2 diabetes.

• Weight Gain and Insulin Resistance: Obesity and weight gain are also associated with insulin resistance. As body fat increases, it releases inflammatory substances that can interfere with insulin signaling, leading to insulin resistance and further weight gain.

Can Losing Weight Improve Fatty Liver?

The good news is that fatty liver disease can usually be reversed with healthy lifestyle changes and weight loss. Studies have shown that even modest weight loss (about 5-10% of body weight) can significantly reduce liver fat and improve liver function in people with fatty liver disease.

So, if you’ve been wondering, does fatty liver cause weight gain? The answer is yes, but weight loss with fatty liver is possible and may reverse fatty liver. 

To lose weight, consider making healthier lifestyle choices such as:

• Eating a healthier, balanced, reduced-calorie diet
• Exercising regularly
• Avoiding alcohol (which can lead to weight gain and liver damage)
• Getting plenty of sleep

In addition to practicing healthier lifestyle habits, you may also consider dietary supplements. Dietary supplements like The Everyday Liver Vitamin may help promote liver health, thus potentially promoting weight loss.*

The Everyday Liver Vitamin is a unique formula made with ingredients studied for their benefits in promoting liver health. Making liver health supplements part of your daily regimen may speed up your fatty liver healing process.*

Does Fatty Liver Cause Weight Gain? The Bottom Line

So, does fatty liver cause weight gain? Well, while fatty liver and weight gain often go hand in hand, it's not always clear which comes first. 

Fatty liver can contribute to weight gain by disrupting metabolism and hormone regulation, while obesity and weight gain are major risk factors for developing fatty liver disease.

The good news is that making lifestyle changes such as losing weight, exercising regularly, and eating a balanced diet can help improve fatty liver and prevent further complications. 

Take charge of your health today by making healthier choices and preserving your liver health. 

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.