Link Between Diabetes & Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

Dr.Ajitabh Srivastava, 4 mins read

Many researches show a relationship between type 2 diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. These studies conclude that each condition increases the risk of the other.

Having high blood sugar levels for a longer time can affect the internal organs, including the liver, causing diseases like non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).

Similarly, both NAFLD and NASH can lead to the buildup of fat and damage in the liver, which raises the risk of prediabetes and type 2 diabetes.

Therefore, if you have any of these conditions, you should be more cautious and take measures to address them. So that the extent of the problem and the risk of other medical conditions doesn’t increase.

Consult a specialist at Aakash Healthcare for help and proper management and treatment of your disease.

What is diabetes?
Diabetes is a chronic (life-long) disease that affects how your body turns food into energy. It occurs when glucose or blood sugar levels remain above the normal range: 80-130 mg/dL.

There are two main types of diabetes:
• Type 1: When the body doesn't produce insulin
• Type 2: When the body doesn't produce enough insulin or use it efficiently.

In both cases, the blood sugar level increases, which can lead to serious health conditions.

What is non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)?
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is a condition in which fat builds up in the liver. However, unlike alcoholic fatty liver disease, it doesn’t happen because of excessive alcohol consumption.

There are two types of NAFLD:
• NAFL: Stands for non-alcoholic fatty liver, which means fat buildup in the liver but no inflammation. It usually doesn't lead to liver damage and complications. However, it causes pain and enlargement of the liver.
• NASH: Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis referred to as fat buildup, inflammation and damage in the liver. It can lead to fibrosis or scarring of the liver or in some cases cirrhosis.

The link between diabetes & non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
Scientists have found that type 2 diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease share a two-way pathological relationship. This means having one of these diseases increases the risk of other medical conditions.

Why are diabetic patients at risk of liver disease?
• Insulin resistance: Diabetic patients often have insulin resistance. This in turn causes the accumulation of fat in the liver, which may result in the development of NAFLD.

• Obesity: Many diabetic patients are also obese. Excess weight is a significant risk factor for both diabetes and NAFLD.

• Dyslipidemia: Diabetic patients often have abnormal levels of lipids in their blood. This can further contribute to the development of NAFLD.

Why are patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease at risk of diabetes?
• Insulin resistance: NAFLD is associated with insulin resistance, which may lead to diabetes over time.

• Inflammation: NAFLD can cause chronic inflammation in the body, which is a risk factor for diabetes.

• Shared risk factors: NAFLD and diabetes share common risk factors such as obesity, unhealthy diet, and sedentary lifestyle. These factors can increase the risk of developing both conditions.

Management & treatment
Both NAFLD and type 2 diabetes can be managed with lifestyle changes. These include regular exercise, healthy diet and weight management.

For diabetes, medications or insulin therapy can be helpful. And for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, doctors often recommend managing the underlying risk factors and preventing further liver damage. This involves managing a healthy weight, controlling blood sugar levels and avoiding alcohol.

In severe cases, advanced medical interventions or even a liver transplant may be required. If you have any of these conditions or both conditions, you need to closely work with your healthcare professional.