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Fatty liver is defined as the accumulation of fat in the liver which is excessive for the normal physiological state. Fatty liver can be due to many causes - most common causes include obesity and alcohol use (usually excessive). In the setting where someone does not drink alcohol or drinks very little alcohol and has fatty liver - the doctors usually termed this as "non-alcoholic fatty liver disease" or NAFLD, in short.
Other causes includes steroid use, hormonal conditions such as hypothyroidism to name a few.
Typically NAFLD is related to increased 'fructose' intake and recent weight gain. Fructose is the common sugar ingredient we find in sugar-containing beverages such as Coke, fruit juice, Bubble tea, etc. Excessive intake of these artificial sugars can increase your risk of fatty liver. Other lifestyle factors that will increase the risk of fatty liver includes regular nightshift work, propensity to eat supper before bed time, lack of exercises.
Remember with the COVID pandemic, many people are now working from home (WFH), so doctors have seen greater proportion of patients who suffers from weight gain during this period - such will lead to increased risk of fatty liver
NAFLD can be hereditary IF there is a family history of type 2 diabetes. Fatty liver (NAFLD) is a condition which is closely associated with diabetes. Those with fatty liver has increased risk of developing diabetes in their lifetime. Conversely, those with diabetes are at increased risk of having fatty liver too.
Hope this information answers your question!