Did you know that Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) has a prevalence of more than 25% globally and 9-32% in the general Indian population? This is data presented in a 2023 study published in the Indian Journal of Community Medicine. The good news is fatty liver disease, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, is manageable, given you take necessary measures. However, if you fail to do so, experts suggest that it can increase your risk of various heart diseases.
In an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Chetan Kalal, Program Director, Liver Diseases, Nanavati Max Super Speciality Hospital, Mumbai, says that having a fatty liver, especially NAFLD, does in fact increase the risk of a heart attack. Read to know why and what can be done to reduce the risk.
Also Read: Your Legs Can Signal A Fatty Liver Disease: Note THIS Warning Sign
The Link Between Fatty Liver And Increased Heart Attack Risk
“The link between fatty liver disease and heart attacks is mainly due to shared risk factors such as obesity, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and abnormal cholesterol levels,” explains Dr Kalal.
He adds that fatty liver disease is associated with systemic inflammation and atherogenic dyslipidaemia (abnormal cholesterol levels), both of which can promote atherosclerosis—a condition where the arteries become narrowed and hardened. This atherosclerosis can lead to an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks.
A review article published in Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis, and Vascular Biology also refers to NAFLD as a risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and calls it the principal cause of death in patients with NAFLD.
Warning Signs
As per Dr Kalal, there are no specific symptoms that directly indicate a higher risk of a heart attack in individuals with fatty liver disease. However, symptoms related to metabolic syndrome, which often accompany fatty liver disease, can suggest an increased cardiovascular risk, he adds. These include:
- Abdominal obesity (excess fat around the belly)
- High blood pressure
- Elevated blood sugar levels or diabetes
- Abnormal lipid levels, such as high triglycerides and low HDL cholesterol.
In people with fatty liver disease, regular screenings are crucial to monitor their heart health, given their increased risk of cardiovascular disease, emphasises Dr Kalal.
He recommended tests like lipid profiles to check cholesterol and triglyceride levels, blood pressure monitoring, and blood tests to monitor glucose and HbA1c levels for diabetes or prediabetes.
Additionally, liver function tests are also important to assess the progression of fatty liver disease, he shares.
Moreover, depending on individual risk factors and symptoms, additional tests like an electrocardiogram (ECG), stress test, carotid ultrasound, or coronary calcium scoring may be recommended to assess heart health and the extent of atherosclerosis. Regular follow-up with a healthcare provider is essential for ongoing monitoring and management.
Also Read: How Fatty Liver Impacts Your Heart Health And Beyond, Expert Explains
How To Manage Fatty Liver To Reduce Risk Of Heart Attack
There are various strategies to reduce fatty liver to lower the risk of heart attack and heart diseases in general.
“Effective management of fatty liver disease involves addressing the metabolic risk factors that also contribute to cardiovascular disease. Lifestyle modifications such as weight loss, improving insulin sensitivity, controlling blood pressure, and managing cholesterol levels can help reduce the risk of both fatty liver disease progression and cardiovascular events like heart attacks,” advises Dr Kalal.
In addition, a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats could be beneficial. Simultaneously, one must avoid saturated fats, trans fats, refined sugars, and alcohol.
Those with fatty liver disease must also indulge in regular physical activity, including both aerobic exercises and resistance training. This can help reduce liver fat and improve overall health, according to the doctor. He emphasises the importance of weight management in lowering both fatty liver and heart disease risk. In fact, he concludes by saying that even a modest weight loss of 5–10% can significantly improve liver function.