Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) are two common liver conditions that are strongly linked to obesity.

NAFLD is a condition where excess fat builds up in the liver. NASH is the when that excess fat starts causing inflammation and damage to liver cells, which over time can cause scarring of the liver and eventually lead to cirrhosis, liver failure, and liver cancer.

Cirrhosis happens when the liver is damaged and scarred to the point where it cannot function properly. It can lead to a range of complications, including changes to blood counts, risk of bleeding, fluid build up in the abdomen (ascites), increased risk of infection.

The good news is that NAFLD and NASH can be prevented and managed through lifestyle changes such as weight loss, healthy eating, and exercise. Even just 10% weight loss can help reduce inflammation and risk of scarring (fibrosis).