Fatty Liver Index: Fatty liver is becoming increasingly common, even among people who do not consume alcohol. While many know that an ultrasound can detect fatty liver, experts now reveal that a simple blood test can also indicate the risk of liver damage.
This is especially important for those with obesity, diabetes or high blood pressure, as early detection can prevent serious health issues.
What Causes Fatty Liver?
AIIMS doctor Priyanka Sehrawat explained the underlying causes of fatty liver. She said, “You all know that fatty liver can be diagnosed with an ultrasound. You also know that fatty liver does not happen only because of alcohol. We also have non-alcoholic fatty liver, which occurs in people who do not consume alcohol. Even then, it can affect liver function.”
Factors that can increase the risk of fatty liver include:
- Abdominal obesity – Excess fat around the waist can strain the liver.
- Diabetes – High blood sugar levels affect liver metabolism.
- Insulin resistance – This can lead to fat accumulation in liver cells.
- High blood pressure – Long-term hypertension impacts liver health.
Dr Sehrawat added, “These factors can convert normal liver cells into fatty liver cells.”
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Fatty Liver Index: The Blood Test That Detects Risk
Ultrasound is not the only way to detect fatty liver. A blood test, called the Fatty Liver Index (FLI), can also indicate liver health. This test measures four key parameters from your blood:
- Liver enzymes – High levels can indicate liver stress.
- BMI (Body Mass Index) – Helps evaluate obesity-related risk.
- Triglycerides – Elevated fats in the blood can affect liver cells.
- Platelet levels – Low or abnormal counts can signal liver problems.
These four parameters are combined into a score, which forms the Fatty Liver Index. For example, a score of 32.6 can indicate early signs of fatty liver. The test is simple, non-invasive, and helps catch risk early before serious damage occurs.
This index is especially helpful for detecting non-alcoholic fatty liver, which can go unnoticed for years.
Why Early Detection Matters
Fatty liver is often called a “silent” condition because many people do not feel symptoms initially. Over time, it can lead to inflammation, fibrosis, or even cirrhosis. Regular check-ups and tests like the Fatty Liver Index can help monitor liver health and guide lifestyle changes.
Tips to reduce fatty liver risk:
- Maintain a healthy weight and waist size
- Follow a balanced diet with low sugar and healthy fats
- Exercise regularly to improve insulin sensitivity
- Monitor blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol levels
By combining lifestyle management with modern testing like the Fatty Liver Index, individuals can detect liver risks early and prevent long-term complications.
