Non Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

NAFLD is a condition where fat builds up in the liver, even if the person drinks little to no alcohol. It's a common condition, especially in developed countries, and is becoming one of the leading causes of liver disease. Mayo Clinic on NAFLD

NASH (Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis) is a subtype of NAFLD that can progress to severe liver inflammation and scarring. It is more serious than simple fatty liver and has a greater risk of worsening into advanced liver disease. American Liver Foundation on NASH

Statistics/Demographics

NAFLD is emerging as the most common liver disorder in India, with prevalence rates ranging from 9% to 32% in the general population.

Which are the body parts that get effected?

Primarily affects the liver. Over time, the accumulation of fat can cause inflammation and scarring, leading to more severe liver disease or cirrhosis. Mayo Clinic on NAFLD

Symptoms:

Preclinical: Early stages of NAFLD often present with no noticeable symptoms. The disease might be incidentally discovered through liver function tests or imaging.

Clinical: Fatigue, pain or discomfort in the upper right abdomen. Advanced forms might present jaundice, swelling in the legs, etc. NHS on NAFLD

Risk factors:

Obesity, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, metabolic syndrome, polycystic ovary syndrome, and sleep apnea. Certain medications and rapid weight loss can also play a role. American Liver Foundation on NAFLD

How to control/manage NAFLD?

Weight loss, eating a healthy diet, regular exercise, avoiding alcohol and unnecessary medications, controlling cholesterol and diabetes. American Liver Foundation on NAFLD

Role of nutrition & diet:

A balanced diet can help manage and even reverse NAFLD. Reducing intake of saturated fats, sugars, and cholesterol can be particularly beneficial. Mayo Clinic on NAFLD Diet

What should you focus on?

• Include whole foods, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins.

• Limit fried foods, salt, red meats, and added sugars.

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) is a hormonal disorder common among women of reproductive age. Women with PCOS may have prolonged or infrequent menstrual periods or excess male hormone - androgen levels. Mayo Clinic on PCOS

An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac that forms on or inside an ovary. While cysts can be a feature of PCOS, having cysts doesn't necessarily mean one has the syndrome. Mayo Clinic on Ovarian Cysts

Statistics/Demographics

PCOS affects 5-10% of women of reproductive age globally. In India, estimates suggest around 18-21% of women are affected in urban areas, depending on the criteria used for diagnosis.

Which are the body parts that get effected?

Primarily affects the ovaries, which might not release eggs regularly. Over time, this can result in multiple small cysts on the ovaries. CDC on PCOS

Symptoms:

Preclinical: Some women might not immediately recognize symptoms, especially if they are mild. Irregular periods or weight gain might be overlooked.

Clinical: Irregular periods, heavy bleeding, excess facial and body hair, acne, pelvic pain, difficulty getting pregnant, and patches of thick, darker, velvety skin. Mayo Clinic on PCOS

Risk factors:

Family history, high levels of insulin, inflammation, and being overweight.

How to control/manage PCOS?

Medications, lifestyle changes - diet and exercise, fertility treatments if pregnancy is desired, and treatments for hair growth or hair loss. CDC on PCOS

Role of nutrition & diet:

A balanced diet can help manage PCOS symptoms. Insulin resistance is common in PCOS, so a diet that stabilizes insulin levels can be beneficial.

What should you focus on?

• Include whole foods, lean proteins, whole grains, and plenty of fruits and vegetables.

• Limit refined carbohydrates, sugary foods, and beverages.

PCOS can increase the risk for other conditions in the future, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, cholesterol abnormalities, sleep apnea, endometrial cancer, and mood disorders. Regular check-ups and symptom management are crucial. CDC on PCOS

Insulin Resistance

Insulin resistance occurs when the body's cells become less responsive to the hormone insulin, which regulates blood glucose. This means the body needs more insulin to keep blood sugar levels normal. NIH - Insulin Resistance

Prediabetes is a stage where blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not high enough for a diagnosis of diabetes. It often precedes type 2 diabetes and is commonly associated with insulin resistance. CDC - Prediabetes

Statistics/Demographics

In global terms, millions are affected by insulin resistance, though exact numbers can vary. The prevalence is higher among populations with a higher rate of type 2 diabetes.

Which are the body parts that get effected?

Primarily the muscles, liver, and fat cells. Over time, it can affect the pancreas, heart, and vascular system. EndocrineWeb - Insulin Resistance

Symptoms:

Preclinical: Often there are no noticeable symptoms. It might be discovered through blood tests or its association with other conditions.

Clinical: Dark patches on the skin (acanthosis nigricans), fatigue, hunger, difficulty concentrating. Healthline - Insulin Resistance

Risk factors:

Obesity, physical inactivity, unhealthy diet, age, high blood pressure, family history of diabetes. WebMD - Insulin Resistance

How to control/manage Insulin resistance?

Lifestyle changes like improving diet and increasing physical activity. Some may need medications. NIH - Management

Role of nutrition & diet:

A balanced diet rich in whole grains, lean proteins, and low in refined sugars can help manage and prevent insulin resistance.

What should you focus on?

• Focus on high fiber foods, lean proteins, and healthy fats.

• Limit: Processed foods and sugary drinks.