Fatty Liver Disease: What You Need to Know

This week on Fat Science, Dr. Emily Cooper, Andrea Taylor, and Mark Wright uncover the truth about fatty liver disease and its rapid rise in both adults and children. It’s estimated 125 million Americans have the disease. 

Dr. Cooper explains the critical role the liver plays in metabolism—covering hundreds of essential functions—and why fatty infiltration poses serious risks. The episode demystifies diagnosis, risk factors, and treatment options, empowering listeners to take a proactive approach to liver health and metabolic wellness.

Key Takeaways:

• Fatty liver disease, now known as MASLD—Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease, affects about 30% of adults, and is rising in youth, especially those with obesity or type-2 diabetes.
• Risk is not limited to higher body weights; up to 15% of normal-weight people are also affected, with genetics playing a significant role.
• Diagnosis can be tricky: blood enzymes (ALT, AST) and platelet counts factor into the highly predictive FIB-4 score, while imaging (like fibroscan) provides clarity on severity.
• Untreated, fatty liver can progress to inflammation, fibrosis, and even require a liver transplant, though early-stage disease is often reversible with proper intervention.
• Treatment focuses on improving metabolic function—through medication, diabetes management, and sometimes lifestyle changes—as solely relying on diet and exercise may not be enough, particularly for advanced cases.

Personal Stories & Practical Advice:

• Andrea shares her own experience discovering fatty liver disease and seeing rapid improvement after metabolic treatment.
• The hosts discuss common misconceptions, and why liver health should be checked in both children and adults, regardless of body size or outward health.

Resources:

• Connect with Dr. Emily Cooper on LinkedIn.
• Connect with Mark Wright on LinkedIn.
• Connect with Andrea Taylor on Instagram.

Fat Science is a podcast on a mission to explain where our fat really comes from and why it won’t go and stay away. We are committed to creating a world where people are empowered with accurate information about metabolism and recognize that fat isn’t a failure. This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice.

If you have a question for Dr. Cooper, a show idea, feedback, or just want to connect, email us at info@diabesityinstitute.org or dr.c@fatsciencepodcast.com.

Science is supported by the non-profit Diabesity Institute which is on a mission to increase access to effective, science-based medical care for those suffering from or at risk for diabesity. https://diabesityresearchfoundation.org/