Fatty Liver Disease (MASLD/NAFLD, adjunctive support)
Also known as: fatty liver, NAFLD, MASLD, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease
Fatty liver disease is fat build-up in the liver linked to weight, insulin resistance and metabolic health. It usually has no symptoms and is found on blood tests or scans. Weight loss, exercise and managing diabetes and cholesterol are the proven treatments. Chinese medicine supports through Phlegm-Damp and Liver Qi stagnation patterns alongside lifestyle change.
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Lifestyle & Diet
- •Losing 7–10% of body weight can reverse fatty change — the most effective treatment.
- •Aim for 150+ minutes of moderate exercise weekly; it reduces liver fat even without weight loss.
- •Cut sugary drinks and alcohol; both drive liver fat.
- •Manage diabetes, cholesterol and blood pressure with the GP.
Cautions & Contraindications
- •No herb or supplement is proven to treat fatty liver — avoid products claiming to 'cleanse' the liver.[,]
- •Signs of liver decompensation are emergencies.[]
When to reassess or seek care again
Review every 6–8 weeks. Track weight, waist, exercise and alcohol intake. Confirm GP fibrosis-risk assessment (FIB-4 or similar) and liver enzyme monitoring.
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Sources & Further Reading
Clinical guidance, red flags and safety notes on this page draw on the following current sources alongside the classical references above.
- Healthdirect Australia · 2024
- NICE · 2016
- GESA · 2024
- AHPRA / Chinese Medicine Board of Australia · 2024
Educational reference for licensed practitioners. Not a substitute for individual clinical assessment. Refer to conventional care for any red-flag or undiagnosed presentation.