Fatty Liver Disease
Fatty liver disease is a condition where excess fat builds up in liver cells potentially leading to inflammation, scarring (fibrosis), and cirrhosis.
Overview
Fatty liver disease not due to heavy alcohol use—historically NAFLD, now termed MASLD—ranges from simple fat build‑up to inflammation and scarring (MASH) and, in some people, cirrhosis or liver cancer. Around 1 in 4 adults globally are affected; Australian modelling predicts a substantialand rising burden through 2030 alongside obesity and diabetes trends. The LancetWiley Online Library
Common Misunderstandings
Many people have no symptoms and feel blindsided by an ultrasound or blood test result. Others are told “just lose weight,” which can feel invalidating when they’ve already tried. It helps to know there are multiple, modifiable drivers—including diet quality, sleep, movement, metabolic health, and the gut–liver axis.
How is Fatty Liver Disease Linked to Your Microbiome?
- The gut–liver axis links intestinal bacteria and liver health via microbial products, bile acids, and gut barrier integrity; dysbiosis can promote fat build‑up and inflammation in the liver. GastrojournalNature
- Certain gut bacteria (e.g., high‑alcohol‑producing Klebsiella pneumoniae and Candida) can generate excess ethanol, driving fatty liver in experimental models and human cohorts. Cell
- Microbiome signatures and metabolites are being studied as non‑invasive biomarkers and potential treatment targets, though findings vary between populations. BioMed Central
- Major liver societies now use MASLD/MASH terminology to reflect the central role of metabolic dysfunction—important when tailoring lifestyle and adjunctive therapies. Journal of HepatologyNature
Symptoms
Often none
Sometimes fatigue
Right-upper-abdominal discomfort
Fatty liver on imaging
Abnormal liver enzymes
The Microbiome Clinic™
Our treatment approach for Fatty Liver Disease includes:
Gut Microbiome Test
Profile the mouth and gut to identify dysbiosis that may be affecting symptoms or treatment using the Gut Microbiome Test.
Targeted Antimicrobial Strategies
Antibiotics and plant-based or pharmaceutical antimicrobials (where appropriate) to reduce the overgrown population of unwanted bacteria in the gut.
Probiotics and Prebiotics
Targeted probiotics and prebiotics are introduced slowly to restore balance and biodiversity of microbes in the gut without fuelling overgrowth.
Individualised Nutrition Plans
Nutrition strategies to support recovery and enhance your overall health such as a tailored low-FODMAP diet or fibre consumptions strategies.
Been diagnosed with Fatty Liver Disease?
