How to Reduce a Fatty Liver

Written by Owen Pearson

14 August, 2017

Fatty liver is characterized by the buildup of fat cells in the liver, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. This condition may be caused by excessive use of alcohol, prescription drugs or accumulation of environmental toxins. Fatty liver may cause enlargement of the liver and may result in abdominal pain, particularly on the right side of the abdomen. This condition may also result in symptoms such as fever, confusion and jaundice, or yellowing of the skin.

Is This an Emergency?

If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, seek emergency treatment immediately.

Adopt a diet consisting of about 75 percent organic raw fruits, vegetables, seeds and nuts. According to Dr. James Balch and Phyllis Balch, authors of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing, raw, organic plant foods introduce fewer toxins into the body than cooked foods 1. This may reduce the workload on the liver, allowing it to clear out fatty deposits and regenerate healthy cells.

Foods Known to Damage the Liver

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Add beans and legumes, such as chickpeas, kidney beans, soybeans and peas, to your diet. According to the Balches, these foods contain arginine, an amino acid that helps neutralize ammonia, which is a toxic byproduct created by the body during the digestion process. Detoxification of ammonia may reduce stress on the liver.

Flavor gyros, falafel and other Greek dishes with anise seeds, which complement Mediterranean cuisine. According to Michael Castleman, author of "The Healing Herbs, anise seeds may stimulate the regeneration of healthy liver cells, allowing the liver to flush out excess fats 2.

Foods That Are Good for a Liver Cleanse

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Eat lean proteins, such as tofu and lean poultry, instead of pork and beef products. Red meats are high in saturated fats. According to the Balches, these fats may strain the liver and promote the accumulation of liver fats.

Add turmeric to soups, curries and casseroles. Turmeric is a spice commonly used in Indian cuisine. According to Castleman, this spice contains a chemical, called curcumin, that may help protect the liver against damage caused by accumulated fats. It may also aid in the regeneration of liver cells and the removal of fats.