What To Do If You Have Elevated Liver Enzymes Due To Fatty Liver

Fatty liver disease is often associated with elevated liver enzymes, which typically indicates some degree of liver cell damage. However, the level and duration of the elevation are both important factors to consider. If the increase in liver enzymes is recent, weight loss can be an effective way to reduce fatty liver deposits and lower enzyme levels.

Adopting a healthy diet and engaging in regular physical activity are key to successful weight loss. Reducing overall calorie intake and choosing nutrient-dense foods can significantly impact liver health. In terms of exercise, combining moderate-intensity aerobic activities—such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming—with resistance training can help reduce body fat and improve liver function.

For some individuals, even after losing weight and improving liver fat content, liver enzyme levels may not decrease as expected. This could suggest that other underlying conditions are contributing to the elevated enzymes. In such cases, it's important to consult a healthcare provider to determine whether the elevation is solely due to fatty liver or if other factors are involved.

Further diagnostic tests may be necessary, including blood work or imaging studies, to assess the possibility of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) or other liver conditions. In some cases, medication or targeted treatment may be recommended alongside lifestyle changes to manage liver inflammation and prevent further damage.

If elevated liver enzymes are detected during a routine blood test or a fatty liver diagnosis is made via ultrasound, the first line of action should always be lifestyle modification focused on weight reduction. However, if enzyme levels remain high despite lifestyle efforts, seeking professional medical evaluation and treatment becomes essential. Early intervention can prevent progression to more serious liver conditions and improve long-term health outcomes.