Fatty liver

Fatty liver, also known as hepatic steatosis, is a condition where excess fat accumulates in the liver. It can be caused by a number of factors, including obesity, high blood sugar, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and excessive alcohol consumption.

In natural health, fatty liver is viewed as a condition caused by an imbalance of the body's energy, or Qi (pronounced "chee"). The natural health approach to treating fatty liver focuses on restoring the balance of Qi in the body and supporting the liver.

Some common natural health treatments for fatty liver include:

1. Acupuncture: This involves the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body to promote the flow of Qi and support the liver.
2. Herbal medicine: Natural health herbal formulas may be used to support the liver and improve its function. Some commonly used herbs for fatty liver include bupleurum, milk thistle, and schisandra.
3. Diet therapy: Natural health dietary recommendations may include avoiding alcohol and foods that are high in fat and sugar, and incorporating foods that are nourishing to the liver, such as leafy greens, beets, and bitter melon.
4. Exercise and stress reduction: Natural health emphasizes the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and stress reduction techniques such as meditation or qi gong.

It's important to note that natural health should be used in conjunction with conventional medical treatment for fatty liver. If you are experiencing symptoms of fatty liver or have been diagnosed with the condition, it's important to consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for your individual needs. 

In natural health, there are certain foods that are believed to be beneficial for the liver and can help alleviate fatty liver. Here are some examples:

1. Leafy greens: Vegetables such as kale, spinach, and collard greens are rich in antioxidants and other nutrients that support liver function.
2. Bitter foods: Bitter foods, such as dandelion greens, endive, and bitter melon, are believed to stimulate the liver and promote the production of bile, which helps to break down fats.
3. Garlic and onion: These foods contain compounds that support liver function and have been shown to help reduce inflammation in the liver.
4. Ginger and turmeric: These spices have anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce inflammation in the liver.
5. Whole grains: Whole grains, such as brown rice and quinoa, are rich in fiber and other nutrients that support liver function and help to reduce inflammation.
6. Low glycemic index fruits: Fruits that are low in sugar, such as berries, apples, and grapefruit, are believed to be beneficial for the liver.

It's important to note that dietary changes alone may not be sufficient to treat fatty liver, and it's important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for your individual needs.