Question 1

What is Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)?

Accepted Answer

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a condition where excess fat accumulates in the liver in people who drink little to no alcohol. It is caused by metabolic dysfunction including insulin resistance, obesity, and low adiponectin hormone levels that disrupt lipid metabolism in the liver. The Adiponectin blood test is the most important test for assessing metabolic dysfunction underlying NAFLD.

Question 2

What causes non-alcoholic fatty liver disease?

Accepted Answer

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is caused by metabolic dysfunction including insulin resistance, obesity, type 2 diabetes, and hormonal imbalances like low adiponectin levels. When your body cannot properly metabolize fats and sugars, excess fat accumulates in liver cells even without alcohol consumption. Risk factors include being overweight, having high cholesterol or triglycerides, polycystic ovary syndrome, sleep apnea, and metabolic syndrome.

Question 3

What is the best test for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease?

Accepted Answer

The Adiponectin blood test is the most important test for assessing metabolic dysfunction underlying NAFLD because it measures levels of this key hormone that regulates lipid metabolism in the liver. Low adiponectin levels are strongly associated with increased prevalence of fatty liver disease and indicate the metabolic problems contributing to fat accumulation in liver cells. While NAFLD is primarily diagnosed through imaging studies like ultrasound or FibroScan, the Adiponectin test helps identify the biochemical factors driving the condition and can guide treatment strategies focused on improving metabolic health.

Question 4

When should I get tested for fatty liver disease?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you have risk factors like being overweight or obese, have type 2 diabetes or prediabetes, have high cholesterol or triglycerides, or have been told you have metabolic syndrome. Testing is also important if you experience unexplained fatigue, discomfort in the upper right abdomen, or if routine blood work shows elevated liver enzymes. Early detection through adiponectin testing can help you address metabolic dysfunction before it progresses to more serious liver damage.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease?

Accepted Answer

Most people with NAFLD have no symptoms in the early stages, which is why it is often discovered during routine blood work or imaging for other reasons. When symptoms do occur, you might experience fatigue, weakness, general discomfort or achiness in the upper right abdomen, or unexplained weight loss. As the condition progresses to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) or cirrhosis, more severe symptoms like jaundice, abdominal swelling, confusion, or easy bruising may develop.

Question 6

Who is at risk for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease?

Accepted Answer

People who are overweight or obese are at highest risk for NAFLD, particularly those with abdominal obesity and excess belly fat. Other high-risk groups include individuals with type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, high cholesterol or triglycerides, metabolic syndrome, polycystic ovary syndrome, sleep apnea, hypothyroidism, and those over age 50. Hispanics and Asians appear to have higher genetic susceptibility, and the condition can affect children, especially those who are overweight.

Question 7

What happens if fatty liver disease is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

If left untreated, NAFLD can progress to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), where inflammation and liver cell damage occur alongside fat accumulation. Over time, NASH can lead to liver fibrosis (scarring), cirrhosis, liver failure, and increased risk of liver cancer. People with untreated NAFLD also face higher risks of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes complications, and kidney disease. Early intervention through lifestyle changes and monitoring metabolic markers like adiponectin can prevent or slow this progression.

Question 8

Can fatty liver disease be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Blood tests alone cannot directly diagnose NAFLD, but they play a crucial role in assessing metabolic dysfunction and liver health. The Adiponectin test measures hormone levels that regulate fat metabolism in the liver, with low levels indicating increased risk. Blood tests for liver enzymes, lipid panels, glucose, and insulin resistance markers help identify underlying metabolic problems contributing to fat accumulation. Definitive diagnosis requires imaging studies like ultrasound, CT scan, MRI, or FibroScan, sometimes combined with liver biopsy for accurate staging.

Question 9

How is non-alcoholic fatty liver disease treated?

Accepted Answer

Treatment for NAFLD focuses on lifestyle modifications and addressing underlying metabolic conditions. Weight loss of 7-10% of body weight through diet and exercise is the most effective treatment, helping reduce liver fat and inflammation. Managing conditions like diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure is essential. Your doctor may recommend a Mediterranean-style diet low in refined carbohydrates and saturated fats, regular physical activity, and avoiding alcohol completely. In some cases, medications like vitamin E, pioglitazone, or newer drugs targeting metabolic pathways may be prescribed.

Question 10

How can I prevent non-alcoholic fatty liver disease?

Accepted Answer

You can prevent NAFLD by maintaining a healthy weight through balanced nutrition and regular exercise. Eat a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats while limiting sugar, refined carbohydrates, and saturated fats. Engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity weekly and include strength training exercises. Control blood sugar levels, maintain healthy cholesterol and triglyceride levels, and avoid excessive alcohol consumption. Regular check-ups to monitor metabolic health markers like adiponectin can help catch early signs of metabolic dysfunction.

Question 11

What natural remedies help with fatty liver disease?

Accepted Answer

Natural approaches that support liver health include drinking coffee, which has been shown to reduce liver fat and inflammation in NAFLD patients. Green tea contains antioxidants that may help reduce liver fat accumulation. Consuming omega-3 fatty acids from fish like salmon, sardines, and mackerel can improve liver fat levels. Foods high in antioxidants like berries, leafy greens, and nuts support liver function. Milk thistle and vitamin E supplements may provide some benefit, though you should consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplements to ensure they are appropriate for your situation.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) Blood Test

What is Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)?

What causes non-alcoholic fatty liver disease?

What is the best test for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease?

When should I get tested for fatty liver disease?

References

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