The liver metabolises nearly 90–95 per cent of the alcohol consumed by the human body, primarily through enzymes such as alcohol dehydrogenase and aldehyde dehydrogenase. Chronic alcohol consumption overstimulates these metabolic pathways, leading to the accumulation of toxic by-products like acetaldehyde and increased oxidative stress, according to the National Institutes of Health. This damages liver cells, depletes antioxidants, and disrupts fat metabolism, eventually leading to alcoholic fatty liver disease with prolonged exposure.
Often reported by heavy drinkers, the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) found that this chronic liver condition also affects nearly 60-70 per cent of people with type 2 diabetes and those with obesity. In fact, overall 30-40 per cent of the general adult population now reports a metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease or fatty liver.
A study titled ‘Metabolic Dysfunction–Associated Steatotic Liver Disease in Adults: A Review’ published in JAMA by Tilg, Petta, Stefan et al in November 2025 found that this dysfunction is directly linked to increased morbidity and mortality due to liver-related complications. Sharing his insights on the study, TheLiverDoc took to X (formerly Twitter) and shared how it can be reversed.
Can fatty liver be reversed? LiverDoc explains
Sharing the staggering facts of the JAMA study, renowned hepatologist Dr Cyriac Abby Philips shared, “Most people with this condition, caught early on, do not realise that it can be completely reversed. All it takes is you to be in charge of your body and health.”
As per the study, fatty liver commonly occurs due to one or more of these preconditions, such as abdominal overweight or obesity, prediabetes or type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, elevated triglycerides, and low-level high-density lipoprotein cholesterol.
What LiverDoc recommends
As per his clear approach, the LiverDoc advised against pills, detox potions, and supplements. Instead, he shared, “The most effective treatments include exercise and weight-reducing diet, avoiding even modest alcohol use and management of associated metabolic diseases.” He also recommended not having ultra-processed foods with excessive refined sugar and saturated fats, commonly called proinflammatory foods.
Emphasising the importance of movement, he also advised, “minimum of ≥150 min/wk of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75-150 min/wk of vigorous-intensity exercise,” to help reduce liver fat.
Additionally, those with a severe condition of fatty liver could opt for unsweetened black coffee, 3 cups a day, as per the health expert. However, while these are claims made on social media, it is best to follow the advice of a professional aware of your individual medical reports, family history, and underlying conditions.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. While the author has incorporated expert medical guidance while producing the story and ensured full authentic information is provided to the reader, you should always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider regarding a medical condition or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here.