MASH is a severe form of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease where excess fat in the liver causes inflammation.
Without treatment, it can progress tosevere liver scarring (cirrhosis).
MASH also increases the risk of both diabetes and heart disease.
For a long time, diet and exercise were the only remedies for improving liver health in MASH patients.
Last year, Rezdiffra (resmetirom) became the first FDA-approved treatment for MASH.
It is meant to be used alongside lifestyle changes, not as a replacement for them.
How can you do this?
Eat more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein.
Avoid foods that are high in saturated fat and sugar.
When it comes to what you drink, avoid alcohol.
Coffee, on the other hand, may be beneficial.
Emerging research suggests that coffee could help reduce liver inflammation and scarring.
We also know that exercise can help reduce liver fat.
Exercising for 30 minutes at least three times a week can help make a difference in your health.
However, scars in the liver may not fully heal.
Overhauling your lifestyle all at once isnt easy, but thats not what Im suggesting here.
Start gradually with food swaps.
Then fit in physical activity after meals or in short bursts throughout the day.
These small changes will help you build habits that it’s possible for you to keep.
You could even recruit your friends and family to help you stay accountable and lend their support.
Remember, consistency is key, and it will take time to see results.
On average, it takes about seven years to progress through one stage of fibrosis.
Published 2022 Oct 17. doi:10.3389/fphar.2022.1030173
