Fatty Liver Week is an important yearly campaign that aims to educate people about fatty liver disease—a growing health problem affecting millions worldwide. The goal of this event is to raise awareness, encourage early detection, and promote healthy lifestyle changes to prevent liver damage. Many people don’t realize they have fatty liver disease because it often shows no symptoms in the early stages. Fatty Liver Week helps change that by providing information, organizing screenings, and bringing together doctors, patients, and communities to fight this silent but serious condition.

Liver health is crucial because the liver plays a key role in filtering toxins, processing nutrients, and supporting digestion. However, fatty liver disease—caused by too much fat buildup in liver cells—is becoming more common due to poor diets, lack of exercise, obesity, and excessive alcohol use. In fact, about 1 in 4 people globally have non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), while others develop alcohol-related liver damage. If ignored, fatty liver disease can lead to severe problems like liver scarring (cirrhosis) or even liver failure. The good news is that early detection and lifestyle changes can often reverse the condition, which is why awareness campaigns like Fatty Liver Week are so important.

During Fatty Liver Week, expert dietitians from 121 Dietitian will explain why taking care of your liver is so important. The goal of this awareness campaign is to educate you about how fatty liver disease develops silently and, if left untreated, can lead to serious complications like liver inflammation, cirrhosis (scarring), and even liver failure.

121 Dietitian will not only help you recognize early warning signs of fatty liver disease—such as fatigue, mild discomfort on the right side of the abdomen, or general unease—but will also provide personalized guidance to improve your diet, lifestyle, and physical activity.

The purpose of this week is not just to share information but to prepare you for action, so you can keep your liver healthy. With 121 Dietitians, you won’t have to follow a restrictive diet or feel confused—we’ll be with you every step of the way to support your health journey. 

What is Fatty Liver Disease?

Fatty liver disease, also known as hepatic steatosis, is a condition characterised by an excessive buildup of fat in the liver. There are two primary types: non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and alcoholic fatty liver disease (AFLD). NAFLD occurs in individuals who consume little to no alcohol and is often linked to metabolic disorders such as obesity and type 2 diabetes. AFLD, on the other hand, results from excessive alcohol consumption, which impairs the liver’s ability to break down fats, leading to fat accumulation.

The causes and risk factors of fatty liver disease vary depending on the type. For NAFLD, key contributors include obesity, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, and a diet high in processed sugars and unhealthy fats. AFLD is directly caused by chronic alcohol abuse, but poor nutrition can exacerbate liver damage. Additional risk factors for both types include sedentary lifestyles, rapid weight loss, and certain medications.

In its early stages, fatty liver disease often presents no noticeable symptoms, making it a "silent" condition. However, as the disease progresses, some individuals may experience fatigue, abdominal discomfort (particularly in the upper right side), unexplained weight loss, or mild jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes). Since symptoms are frequently absent or vague, early detection through blood tests or imaging is crucial to prevent complications such as liver inflammation (steatohepatitis), fibrosis, or cirrhosis. Maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol intake, and eating a balanced diet are key preventive measures.  

The Significance of Fatty Liver Week

Fatty Liver Week is an essential awareness campaign dedicated to educating the public about non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and its more severe form, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). These conditions, often linked to obesity, diabetes, and poor lifestyle choices, are becoming increasingly prevalent, yet many people remain unaware of the risks and consequences. The campaign aims to highlight the importance of liver health, promote early detection, and encourage lifestyle modifications to prevent irreversible liver damage. By fostering greater understanding and proactive health management, Fatty Liver Week plays a crucial role in reducing the burden of this silent but potentially deadly disease.

Goals of the Awareness Campaign

The primary objectives of Fatty Liver Week are to raise public awareness about the causes, risks, and consequences of fatty liver disease, as well as to dispel common misconceptions. The campaign seeks to emphasise that NAFLD is not solely caused by alcohol consumption but is heavily influenced by metabolic factors such as poor diet, sedentary habits, and insulin resistance. Additionally, it aims to encourage individuals to assess their risk factors, seek medical advice if necessary, and adopt healthier lifestyles to mitigate the progression of the disease. Another key goal is to advocate for better healthcare policies and resources to support early diagnosis and effective treatment.

Key Messages (Prevention, Early Detection, Lifestyle Changes)
Fatty Liver Week centres around three key messages: prevention, early detection, and sustainable lifestyle changes.

1. Prevention focuses on adopting a balanced diet that is low in processed sugars and saturated fats, maintaining a healthy weight, and engaging in regular physical activity. At 121 Dietitian, we support individuals in achieving these goals through tailored nutritional guidance and realistic, achievable meal and lifestyle plans.
   
   
2. Early detection is vital, as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) often has no obvious symptoms in its early stages. Routine health checks—especially for those at higher risk, such as individuals with obesity or type 2 diabetes—can uncover liver issues before they progress to more serious conditions like cirrhosis or liver failure. Many of our clients at 121 Dietitian discover underlying liver concerns during assessments for weight loss or diabetes management.
   
   
3. Lifestyle changes are at the heart of managing and even reversing early-stage fatty liver disease. The campaign encourages long-term improvements, including increasing physical activity, reducing alcohol intake, and improving dietary habits. 121 Dietitian helps clients implement these changes with personalised support that avoids fad diets and instead promotes practical, lasting solutions.
   
   

Fatty Liver Week is not just about raising awareness—it’s about taking meaningful action. With the right advice and support from trusted professionals like 121 Dietitian, you can take control of your liver health and make lasting improvements.

. How Organisations and Health Professionals Participate

During Fatty Liver Week, various organisations—including liver health charities, medical institutions, and public health bodies—actively participate by organising educational events, webinars, and community screening programmes to raise awareness about liver health and the importance of early detection.

Social media campaigns, informative infographics, and expert-led discussions help to disseminate accurate information to a broad audience. Healthcare professionals such as hepatologists, GPs, and dietitians play a crucial role in this effort.

121 Dietitian is a key contributor to this campaign, offering free consultations, personalized nutrition plans, and expert advice tailored to support liver health and manage fatty liver disease effectively. Their practical approach helps individuals adopt balanced diets, achieve sustainable weight loss, and embrace healthier lifestyles.

Collaborative efforts between healthcare providers, policymakers, and advocacy groups ensure that the campaign reaches diverse communities, improving public understanding and encouraging proactive health management.

Through these collective actions, Fatty Liver Week empowers people to take control of their liver health and fosters a wider societal shift towards prevention and early intervention, with trusted professionals like 121 Dietitian supporting individuals every step of the way. 

Prevention and Management of Fatty Liver Disease

Fatty liver disease, encompassing both non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and alcohol-related liver disease, can be effectively prevented and managed through lifestyle modifications and proactive healthcare measures.

. Dietary Recommendations (Foods to Eat and Avoid)

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balanced diet plays a vital role in managing fatty liver disease. Foods rich in antioxidants, fibre, and healthy fats—such as leafy greens, fatty fish like salmon and mackerel, nuts, whole grains, and olive oil—support liver health by reducing inflammation and improving metabolic function. Conversely, processed foods, refined sugars, trans fats, and excessive carbohydrates, especially from white bread, sugary drinks, and pastries, should be minimised as they contribute to fat build-up in the liver.

At 121 Dietitian, we specialise in creating personalised Mediterranean-style diet plans tailored to support liver health and overall wellbeing. Our expert team guides you to make sustainable dietary changes that not only protect your liver but also improve your general health.

If you’re looking to manage or prevent fatty liver disease through better nutrition, 121 Dietitian offers practical, evidence-based advice to help you achieve lasting results.

Importance of Regular Exercise

Physical activity is essential in preventing and reversing fatty liver disease. Regular exercise, including both aerobic activities (such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming) and resistance training, helps reduce liver fat, improve insulin sensitivity, and promote weight loss. Even moderate exercise for 30 minutes a day, five times a week, can significantly lower the risk of liver disease progression. 

Limiting Alcohol and Managing Underlying Conditions (Diabetes, Cholesterol)

For those with alcohol-related fatty liver disease, reducing or eliminating alcohol intake is essential to prevent further liver damage. Equally important is managing underlying conditions such as diabetes, high cholesterol, and obesity, as these significantly contribute to fat accumulation in the liver.

Effective blood sugar control—whether through prescribed medication, a low-glycaemic diet, or cholesterol-lowering strategies like medically supervised statin use—can help slow the progression of liver disease.

At 121 Dietitian, we work closely with individuals to develop personalized nutrition plans and lifestyle strategies that support blood sugar management and promote liver health. Our expert guidance ensures you have the tools to make sustainable changes that complement your medical treatment and improve your overall well-being.

Regular Health Check-ups and Liver Function Tests

Early detection through routine health screenings is key to managing fatty liver disease before it advances to more severe stages, such as cirrhosis or liver failure. Regular liver function tests (LFTs), ultrasound scans, or FibroScan assessments help monitor liver health, while check-ups for metabolic disorders ensure timely intervention. Patients with risk factors—such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, or a family history of liver disease—should undergo periodic evaluations to track liver enzyme levels and overall hepatic function.

By adopting a liver-friendly diet, maintaining an active lifestyle, controlling alcohol consumption, and staying vigilant with medical check-ups, individuals can significantly reduce the impact of fatty liver disease and promote long-term liver health.

Debunking Myths About Fatty Liver Disease

Fatty liver disease is often misunderstood, with several persistent myths clouding public perception. One of the most common misconceptions is that only alcoholics develop fatty liver disease. While excessive alcohol consumption is a leading cause of alcoholic fatty liver disease (AFLD), non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)—and its more severe form, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)—can affect individuals who consume little or no alcohol. NAFLD is closely linked to metabolic factors such as obesity, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, and high cholesterol. Another widespread myth is that fatty liver is harmless and doesn’t progress to serious conditions. As part of Fatty Liver Week, it's important to highlight how personalised support can make a real difference in managing and reversing fatty liver disease. 121 Dietitians have years of experience helping individuals manage fatty liver effectively, offering tailored advice and evidence-based plans designed to suit each person's unique needs.

Whether you’re looking to:

• Lose weight
  
  
• Establish a liver-friendly diet
  
  
• Create a personalised meal plan for fatty liver
  
  
• Improve blood sugar control
  
  
• Develop a sustainable weight management programme
  
  
• Support your liver health alongside medication
  
  
• Get guidance on liver-supportive foods, snacks, meals, and recipes
  
  
• Receive recommendations on healthier food products and supplements
  
  
• Increase your activity levels
  
  
• Or manage conditions such as type 2 diabetes or pre-diabetes
  
  

—121 Dietitians are here to help.

The key message during Fatty Liver Week is clear: if you're overweight or obese, reducing daily calorie intake and becoming more physically active is essential. But we also recognise that this is often easier said than done. Fad diets and extreme fitness routines rarely offer long-term success. That’s why 121 Dietitian focuses on realistic, practical solutions—no gimmicks, just honest, expert support tailored to you.

Interestingly, while obesity is present in 50% to 90% of people diagnosed with NAFLD, the condition can also affect those with a normal body weight. So, if you’re experiencing health issues or have concerns about your diet, it’s worth seeking professional advice. With expert input from 121 Dietitian, you can take meaningful steps toward protecting and improving your liver health—not just during Fatty Liver Week, but for the long term.

How to Get Involved in Fatty Liver Week

Fatty Liver Week is a vital opportunity to raise awareness about liver health and the growing risks associated with fatty liver disease. There are many meaningful ways to get involved and make a difference—whether by attending informative webinars, supporting health camps, or simply sharing trustworthy content online.

At 121 Dietitian, we’re passionate about empowering individuals with evidence-based advice and practical tools to improve liver health through balanced nutrition, regular activity, and sustainable lifestyle changes. If you’re unsure how to make the right dietary changes or would like help optimising the foods you eat, please do get in touch. We’d love to support you—or your family and friends—with any nutrition-related queries, big or small.

Our 121Dietitian Shop is stocked with specialist foods and products carefully selected to support your individual health goals. Feel free to browse and pick what suits your needs best. And if you’re looking for extra guidance, why not visit our YouTube channel, where we share tips and insights to help you stay on top of your health?

We also invite you to book a consultation through our online portal—whether you need a tailored meal plan, help with blood sugar control, or liver-supportive weight management. You can also explore our personalised dietary programmes, developed under the expert care of Gillian Killiner, our founder and leading dietitian.

If you’ve found this blog helpful, please share it with your friends and family across your social media channels—spreading awareness is a powerful step in the fight against fatty liver disease.

And for trusted medical information, we encourage you to visit the NHS A–Z website for further reading on fatty liver disease.

We’re here to help you take control of your liver health—not just during Fatty Liver Week, but for life.

With care,
Gillian x

 Recap and Next Steps

Maintaining optimal liver health is essential for overall well-being, as the liver plays a crucial role in detoxification, metabolism, and immune function. Key strategies include adopting a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, limiting alcohol consumption, avoiding excessive processed foods, staying physically active, and managing underlying conditions such as obesity and diabetes. Regular medical check-ups and early detection of liver issues, such as fatty liver disease, hepatitis, or cirrhosis, can significantly improve outcomes. Vaccinations for hepatitis A and B, safe practices to prevent infections, and cautious use of medications also contribute to long-term liver health. 

Encouragement to Take Proactive Steps for Liver Health

Small, consistent lifestyle changes can make a substantial difference in protecting your liver. Prioritise hydration, reduce sugar and trans fats, and incorporate liver-friendly foods like leafy greens, nuts, and fatty fish. If you have risk factors such as a family history of liver disease or high alcohol intake, consider regular screenings. Remember, the liver has a remarkable ability to regenerate, but prevention is always better than a cure. Now I’d like to hear from you:  If you are unsure of how to change your eating habits or need help optimising the foods you eat please do contact us.

We would love to help you or your family and friends with any nutrition-related queries, big or small.

In the meantime, please check out our 121Dietitian Shop, which provides specialist products and foods. You can browse and select items based on your needs in optimising your health.

If you have enjoyed this blog, we would love you to share this with your family and friends on your social media channels.

Why not visit our YouTube Channel for more on keeping your health optimal?

. Call to Action.

if you have concerns about your liver health, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for personalised advice. Start by reflecting on your daily habits—could you reduce alcohol intake, improve your diet, or become more physically active? These small changes can make a big difference.

For expert support, 121 Dietitian offers tailored nutritional guidance and lifestyle plans to help you take proactive steps towards better liver health. Whether you're managing fatty liver disease or simply aiming to improve your overall well-being, our experienced team is here to support you.

You can also make a wider impact by sharing reliable information with friends and family, encouraging them to prioritise their liver health too. Together, through awareness and action, we can help reduce the burden of liver disease in our communities.

. Additional Resources

For those looking to better understand and manage their liver health, exploring resources from reputable organisations can be an excellent starting point. Trusted bodies such as the World Health Organization (WHO), the British Liver Trust, and the NHS UK offer evidence-based guidance on liver disease prevention and care. Tools like the British Liver Trust’s online liver health quiz and regular Liver Function Tests (LFTs), available through your GP, can help assess your risk and monitor liver function effectively. Books such as The Liver Cleansing Diet by Dr Sandra Cabot also provide valuable insights into supporting liver health through nutrition.

To help put this advice into action, 121 Dietitian, led by award-winning consultant dietitian Gillian Killiner, offers personalised support tailored to your specific health goals. With extensive experience in liver health, Gillian and her team provide expert dietary guidance and practical lifestyle solutions, turning medical advice into everyday habits that support long-term wellbeing. Whether you’re seeking to reverse fatty liver, manage diabetes, or simply eat better, 121 Dietitian is here to help you make lasting, sustainable changes.