How long does it take to reverse fatty liver disease without medication?
That is the question I’m going to explore in today’s post.
The honest answer is though, it depends.
It depends how severe your fatty liver is and how consistently you are able to bring to life the necessary dietary + lifestyle changes ( it’s not a rush, but I’m here to help.)
Let’s take a closer look.
Reducing Steatosis [Liver Fat Reduction]
Liver fat reduction, generally measured by the CAP score via FibroScan, can be reduced by one grade within 3-6 months of making diet and lifestyle changes.
Although a weight loss of 5% during this process can increase the likelihood of success, many studies have demonstrated that aerobic activity + a Mediterranean style diet can make a massive dent in liver fat levels even without substantial weight loss.
People who have more severe fatty liver or who take time to adapt to the required life style changes may require 6-12 months to see the full benefits of their efforts.
Reducing Liver Inflammation [MASH Resolution]
In people with more advanced fatty liver disease, reducing inflammation is also an important goal.
A weight loss of 5-7% may increase likelihood of success with this goal, and it also may require more time to accomplish with most studies demonstrating a 6-12 month timeline as more realistic
Reversing Liver Fibrosis [By One Grade Or More]
Preventing and/or minimizing liver fibrosis is extremely important for people living with a fatty liver because liver fibrosis predicts more bad health outcomes in the future.
The research is clear in showing that people who make diet + lifestyle changes and lose 10% of their bodyweight generally have a good success rate of reducing fibrosis by one grade within 12 months, although it may take closer to 18 months depending on how successful and consistent they are with these changes.
I’m Here To Help
If you have a fatty liver, regardless of how severe it is, you are closer than you think to taking your health back into your hands.
Your next steps are a minimum of 150 minutes of brisk walking ( or other cardiovascular activity) per week + a nutrition overhaul guided and supported by yours truly.
I’m an email away when you are ready to get started.
Until then,
Andy De Santis RD MPH
Further Reading
My Five Step Guide To Reverse Fatty Liver – Andy The RD
What Foods To Avoid If You Have Fatty Liver Disease – Andy The RD
I Answer The HOTTEST Questions About Fatty Liver – Andy The RD
The Best Supplements For Fatty Liver Disease – Andy The RD
@andytherd on Instagram + TikTok for even more free information.
