Fatty liver is also known as ‘Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver’ (NAF). It means the accumulation of fat in the liver of individuals who do not take alcoholic drinks. It is detected by an ultrasonographic study of the liver. However, in the early stages (when the percentage of fat accumulation in liver cells is less than 15%), it is not detectable by ultrasonographic study. Instead, a CT scan or a biopsy can detect it.

This happens to any person who consumes very starchy food or food and drinks that have added sugar. When such a meal is consumed, there is a spike in the level of sugar in the blood. Which is then, with the help of insulin, removed from the blood and transported to the liver. Where it gets converted into glycogen and fat.The glycogen is tired in the liver and in the muscles. The rest of the sugar is converted into fat, which gets deposited in the fat cells present under the skin. However, when these fat cells get filled, they start depositing in and around the internal organs, including the liver.

As the metabolic health of the person deteriorates, the fat deposition in the liver also increases. We then call it NAFL with grades I, II, or III, ‘Fatty Liver’. And yes, NAFL plays a very significant role in the development, continuation, and even worsening of metabolic syndrome.