While the liver disease can have various causes, such as alcohol consumption, medications, or blood clots, the majority of people with liver disease are affected by poor diet and lack of exercise.
NAFLD which is closely linked to unhealthy lifestyle choices is already a prevalent condition affecting a large proportion of the population, and trends suggest that the incidence of the disease will continue to rise in the future.
Unfortunately, as symptoms are often not evident in the early stages, many people may not realize they are affected. However, as the disease progresses, patients may experience changes in their gait that could be an indicator of the condition.
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is now recognized as one of the most common liver diseases in the modern world, but it is also emerging as a new risk factor for neurological diseases, adding to the urgency of addressing the underlying causes of this condition.
Liver dysfunction can have a significant impact on an individual’s behavior, mood, speech, sleep, and mobility, as per medical experts.
Moreover, it can increase a person’s sensitivity to drugs and alcohol, and even alter their walking pattern.
The Liver Trust has warned that changes in walking, such as a staggering gait or a tendency to fall, could indicate that the liver is struggling to perform its functions effectively.
A staggering gait, also known as an ataxic gait, is a type of uncoordinated walking that appears disordered, which is among the possible symptoms of liver impairment.
According to medical experts, any movements that appear uncoordinated to others can be classified as ataxic.
Furthermore, a 2016 report by the Neurological Examination highlighted that individuals with end-stage liver disease may experience a Parkinson’s-like state.
“Unlike Parkinson’s disease, this is characterised by rapid progression, early postural and gait problems […],” according to the report.
While ataxia is commonly associated with fatty liver disease, it can also be a potential risk factor for the condition.
Furthermore, a recent report by the Movement Disorder Clinical Practice in 2021 revealed that most individuals with ataxia telangiectasia are likely to develop liver disease.
How to reverse fatty liver disease?
Non-alcohol-related fatty liver disease is a persistent medical condition that is primarily caused by the buildup of excess fat in the liver.
“It is closely linked with being overweight as well as conditions such as type 2 diabetes and heart and circulatory disease,” according to The British Liver Trust.
Non-alcohol-related fatty liver disease can progress to a more severe stage known as non-alcohol-related steatohepatitis, indicating a more critical phase of the illness. At this point, there is a significant increase in the risk of liver cancer or liver failure.
Regular exercise is considered one of the most effective ways to prevent the advancement of fatty liver disease or even avoid the condition altogether.
Medical experts suggest that engaging in various forms of moderate-intensity physical activity can improve liver health, even if there is no significant weight loss.
Additionally, switching from a diet consisting of fatty foods to one that emphasizes anti-inflammatory foods can also be beneficial. A well-balanced diet, which is low in fat, sugar, and salt and high in fiber, vegetables, and fruits, is highly recommended for maintaining a healthy liver.
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