You might already be familiar with PCOS(a severe form of PCOD) and its symptoms – like gaining weight, hair issues, and trouble with acne. You might have also heard about how PCOS is connected to diabetes. But there’s one thing that’s not talked about much – fatty liver. Surprisingly, up to 55% of people with PCOS can have this issue (depending on how doctors check for it).

In fact, according to research, women with PCOS showed a higher occurrence of hepatic steatosis (fatty liver) in comparison to those without PCOS. Moreover, a larger percentage of PCOS-afflicted women experienced MS (Metabolic Syndrome) and elevated transaminases. Interestingly, all PCOS patients and even individuals without PCOS but with MS displayed signs of hepatic steatosis. This suggests a significant connection between PCOS and fatty liver that demands attention.

The good news is you can do something about it.

Eating healthier with real foods and fiber can help a lot. Also, moving your body regularly is super helpful. Knowing how both are related can help you understand the lifestyle changes that you need to bring. Also, you can get in touch with a certified nutritionist who can recommend a PCOS and fatty liver diet for you.

Understanding the Relation Between PCOS and Fatty Liver

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and fatty liver often go hand in hand due to shared metabolic factors. PCOS involves hormonal imbalances that can lead to insulin resistance and elevated insulin levels. This heightened insulin can contribute to fat buildup in the liver cells, resulting in fatty liver.

Moreover, disrupted adipokine secretion from dysfunctional fat tissue in PCOS can worsen fatty liver. Insulin resistance, a core feature in both PCOS and fatty liver, acts as a connecting link.

In a study from 2019 that included 60 women with PCOS, it was discovered that 38.3% of the participants had been diagnosed with fatty liver disease.

While not everyone with PCOS develops fatty liver and vice versa, the common underlying mechanisms increase the likelihood of their co-occurrence. Understanding these connections may offer insights into effective management strategies for individuals facing both conditions.

Role of PCOS and Fatty Liver Management Programme

If you’ve been facing both these problems, stay assured that there’s a solution to it. There are plenty of PCOS and fatty liver management programme available. In these programs, a nutritionist takes center stage, creating a dietary strategy that addresses both conditions. These experts collaborate with you to create an individualized eating plan, considering your preferences, habits, and health goals.

For the treatment of PCOS problem, the nutritionist focuses on foods that help balance hormones and stabilize blood sugar levels. This often includes recommendations for whole grains, lean proteins like poultry and legumes, and healthy fats such as avocados and nuts. They also guide you in reducing sugary and processed foods that can aggravate the symptoms.

For fatty liver, the nutritionist emphasizes a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and fiber. These choices support liver health by minimizing fat buildup in liver cells.

Beyond providing a list of foods, the nutritionist educates you on the science behind their recommendations, empowering you to make informed choices. They track your progress, address your questions, and fine-tune your plan as needed, ensuring that you’re on the path to managing both the diseases effectively.

Want to get the best diet forsomeone with fatty liver or PCOS?

Get in touch with the nutritionists of Food and Wellness as they offer the best diet and lifestyle management plansin Kolkata, Delhi, Bangalore, and Mumbai. You can also get consultation in Dubai and Singapore.

Ways to Manage PCOS and Fatty Liver

Apart from getting in touch with a nutritionist, you can work on these problems through a proper diet and lifestyle changes. In this context, we’ll share a few tips to help you manage both.

• Change Your Diet: Cut down on fat, sugar, and processed foods, which contribute to fatty liver disease. Avoid trans fats found in fast food and processed items, as they link to insulin resistance and inflammation. High fructose intake from corn syrup and sweet beverages is also connected to fatty liver and worsened insulin resistance. Opt for a diet rich in whole grains, lean proteins, beans, fish, fruits, and vegetables. A Mediterranean-style diet with monounsaturated fats like olive oil can help improve insulin sensitivity and lower liver fat.

• Lose Weight: Shedding pounds helps combat fatty liver by enhancing insulin sensitivity, reducing triglycerides, and visceral fat. A 5% total body weight loss can significantly boost insulin sensitivity and decrease liver fat. For instance, losing 10 pounds when weighing 200 pounds can benefit liver health.

• Get Moving: Physical inactivity contributes to fatty liver. In fact, research says so. Regular aerobic and resistance exercises can lower liver fat even without weight loss. Doing 30 to 60 minutes of exercise two to three times per week leads to significant liver fat reduction.

• Take Fish Oil: Omega-3 fatty acids in fish like salmon and trout combat triglycerides, inflammation, and insulin issues in PCOS. Since consuming enough fish is challenging, fish oil supplements are recommended. Research demonstrates that supplementing with 4 grams of fish oil for eight weeks significantly reduces liver fat and triglycerides in women with PCOS.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, dealing with both PCOS and fatty liver can be tough, but understanding the connection and taking proactive steps can make a real difference. A balanced PCOS fatty liver diet plays a crucial role in this regard. Focus on whole foods like fruits, veggies, lean proteins, and whole grains. Limit sugars and refined carbs as much as possible. Consulting a dietitian for personalized guidance is essential. Remember, small changes can lead to big improvements in your health.