What causes nonalcoholic fatty liver disease?

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is caused by excess fat accumulation in the liver due to insulin resistance, obesity, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, and metabolic syndrome. When your body cannot properly process fats and sugars, the liver begins storing excess fat in its cells. Over time, this fat buildup can lead to liver inflammation and scarring, even though you drink little to no alcohol.

What is the best test for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease?

The Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) test is the most important blood test for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease because it detects liver cell damage and inflammation caused by fat accumulation. When liver cells are injured from fatty deposits, they release ALT into your bloodstream, causing elevated levels. This test helps monitor disease progression and assess liver function. While imaging studies like ultrasound or FibroScan provide definitive diagnosis, the ALT test is essential for ongoing monitoring and early detection of liver damage.

When should I get tested for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease?

You should get tested if you have risk factors like obesity, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, or metabolic syndrome. Testing is also important if you experience unexplained fatigue, discomfort in your upper right abdomen, or if routine blood work shows abnormal liver enzymes. Early detection through blood testing allows you to make lifestyle changes and prevent progression to more serious liver damage before symptoms appear.

What are the symptoms of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease?

Most people with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease have no symptoms, especially in the early stages. As the condition progresses, you might experience fatigue, weakness, unexplained weight loss, or discomfort in the upper right side of your abdomen. In advanced stages with liver scarring, symptoms can include yellowing of the skin and eyes, swelling in the legs and abdomen, and confusion.

Who is at risk for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease?

People with obesity, type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, high cholesterol, high triglycerides, and metabolic syndrome are at highest risk for developing fatty liver disease. Your risk also increases if you are over age 50, have polycystic ovary syndrome, underactive thyroid, sleep apnea, or a family history of liver disease. The condition is more common in Hispanic and Asian populations.

What happens if nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is left untreated?

Untreated nonalcoholic fatty liver disease can progress to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), where liver inflammation causes scarring. This scarring can advance to cirrhosis, where the liver becomes severely damaged and cannot function properly. Cirrhosis increases your risk of liver failure, liver cancer, and life-threatening complications. Early detection and lifestyle changes can prevent this progression and protect your liver health.

Can nonalcoholic fatty liver disease be diagnosed with a blood test?

Blood tests like the ALT test cannot directly diagnose nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, but they are essential for detecting liver inflammation and damage caused by fat accumulation. Elevated ALT levels indicate liver cell injury and help monitor disease progression. Definitive diagnosis requires imaging studies like ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI, but blood tests play a crucial role in screening, monitoring, and guiding treatment decisions.

How is nonalcoholic fatty liver disease treated?

Treatment for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease focuses on weight loss through a healthy diet and regular exercise, which can reduce liver fat and inflammation. Managing underlying conditions like diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure is essential. Your doctor may recommend the Mediterranean diet, limiting sugar and refined carbohydrates, and avoiding alcohol completely. Currently, no medications are specifically approved for NAFLD, though some diabetes medications show promise in clinical trials.

How can I prevent nonalcoholic fatty liver disease?

You can prevent nonalcoholic fatty liver disease by maintaining a healthy weight through balanced nutrition and regular physical activity. Limit foods high in sugar, refined carbohydrates, and saturated fats, while choosing whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. Exercise at least 150 minutes per week, control your blood sugar and cholesterol levels, and avoid excessive alcohol consumption. Regular health screenings help detect early changes in liver function.

What natural remedies help with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease?

Natural approaches that support liver health include drinking coffee, which studies show may reduce liver inflammation and slow disease progression. Green tea contains antioxidants that may help reduce liver fat. Omega-3 fatty acids from fish or supplements can decrease liver fat and inflammation. Vitamin E supplements may benefit some people with NASH, though you should consult your doctor before starting supplements. Weight loss of 7-10% through diet and exercise remains the most effective natural treatment.

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.

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Fatty Liver Disease Blood Test

Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Blood Test

What is Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease?

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a condition where excessive fat accumulates in liver cells of people who consume little to no alcohol. It is caused by insulin resistance, obesity, high triglycerides, and metabolic syndrome leading to fat deposits in the liver. The Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) test is the most important blood test for detecting liver inflammation and monitoring fatty liver disease progression.

Written by Private MD Labs Medical Team

Last updated: December 30, 2025

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!

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