January 2, 2021, 3:49 pm | Read time: 2 minutes
The liver suffers silently. That’s why fatty liver often goes undetected for a long time. The condition can already threaten children if they eat poorly, exercise little, and are overweight. This is where parents need to pay attention and take action.
For children with significant overweight, it may be advisable to regularly check liver health. This is pointed out by the Professional Association of Pediatricians (BVKJ). If liver values are repeatedly elevated, this could be a warning sign of fatty liver disease. It’s a sign that parents should take very seriously.
Be Alert and Prevent Fatty Liver in Children
According to the BVKJ, fat deposits in the liver, as well as fatty liver disease in adolescents, increase their risk of long-term liver damage.
Also interesting: Fatty Liver – Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
The tricky part: A fatty liver (whether in children or adults) initially causes few symptoms. Symptoms usually appear only in the advanced stages. These can include chronic fatigue or severe itching. Skin and eyes may turn yellow, or there may be pain in the upper abdomen.
Prevent with Diet and Exercise
To prevent the development of a fatty liver, a healthy and balanced diet plays a crucial role. This is explained by the Pediatricians on the Net. Here, parents are particularly responsible for having a positive influence and ideally setting a good example.
If children primarily consume white flour products and take in a lot of fructose and glucose, it harms their liver. According to the medical association, sweetened drinks, junk food, pizza, crackers, chips, sweets, and snacks are part of this unhealthy diet. Additionally, gut flora and genetic factors are also believed to influence the development of fatty liver in children.
If pathological changes have already occurred, targeted dietary measures and more exercise can help prevent the disease from progressing further. In some cases, accompanying medication is advisable.