Fatty liver, also known as hepatic steatosis, is a chronic condition where fat builds up in the liver. It can damage the liver and lead to serious complications. Globally, the prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in adults is 32%, and it's higher in men than women. 47 out of 1000 people suffer from the disease and the prevalence varies by region, with the highest rates in the Americas and South-East Asia.
What is fatty liver disease?
Your liver is the largest organ inside your body. It helps your body digest food, store energy, and remove poisons. Fatty liver disease is a condition in which fat builds up in your liver. When the liver does not process and break down fats as it normally should, too much fat accumulates to develop the fatty liver disease. People tend to develop fatty liver if they have certain other conditions, such as obesity, diabetes or high triglycerides. Alcohol abuse, rapid weight loss and malnutrition may also lead to fatty liver.
There are two main types of fatty liver disease:Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common type of fatty liver disease. It's associated with metabolic syndrome, obesity, diabetes, and high cholesterol.
However, alcoholic fatty liver disease, also called alcoholic steatohepatitis, is triggered by excessive alcohol consumption.
Fatty liver disease can be caused by a combination of factors like being overweight, consuming a high-fat diet, insulin resistance, high triglycerides, and chemical exposure.
Risk factors for fatty liver disease include: obesity, high-fat diet, high alcohol intake, and diabetes. Symptoms of fatty liver disease are often absent or mild, but can include tiredness or pain in the upper right abdomen.
Can millets heal fatty liver?
Millets are a highly varied group of small-seeded grasses, widely grown around the world as cereal crops or grains for fodder and human food. Most millets belong to the tribe Paniceae. It’s widely consumed in developing countries throughout Africa and Asia. While it may look like a seed, millet’s nutritional profile is similar to that of sorghum and other cereals. Millets have gained popularity in the West because they are gluten-free and boasts high protein, fibre, and antioxidant contents.
As millets are gluten-free, people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities can enjoy them. They have numerous health benefits, including helping to lower your blood sugar and cholesterol levels, hence is quite helpful with the fatty liver disease.
Millets are high in fibre and low in calories, which can help lower cholesterol and prevent fatty liver. Millets also contain vitamins and minerals that can support liver health. The antioxidants help with blood sugar control and boosting immunity. Millet bran protein hydrolysate (MBPH) has the potential to treat non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). It can reduce lipid accumulation, decrease the expression of fatty acid uptake related genes, and prevent and treat NAFLD. Heat-treated foxtail millet (HFM) may have a protective effect on NAFLD in diabetic mice. It can reduce hepatic total cholesterol, triglyceride, and malondialdehyde, and increase superoxide dismutase.
Different types of millets:
There are different types of millets available in the market, some of which are:
Sorghum Millet (Jowar): A super grain in Africa and Asia, Jowar boasts a slightly bitter taste and a brownish hue is loaded with fibre, iron, and antioxidants. Combats inflammation, amplifies digestion, and battle cancer risks. Sorghum is a rich source of dietary fibre, protein, iron, and antioxidants. It is also gluten-free, making it suitable for people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. Sorghum promotes heart health by lowering cholesterol levels, and its high antioxidant content helps fight inflammation and oxidative stress. It also improves digestion due to its high fibre content and helps manage weight.
Proso Millet (Chena / Barri): A tiny-seed packing a robust amount of protein, able to adapt in various dishes, Proso millet is notable for its high content of protein and amino acids, making it a great option for people following plant-based diets. It also has a lower carbohydrate content compared to other grains, which helps regulate blood sugar levels. Proso millet is great for folks with diabetes because of its low sugar impact. It’s a handy tool for managing weight because it’s low calorie and high in protein. Its magnesium-rich nature may lessen heart disease risk, promoting a strong heart.
Pearl Millet (Bajra): Bajra boasts a greyish shade and a coarse texture, packed with with high zinc, iron, and energy levels and amplifies metabolism, amps up circulation and fortifies immunity. Whether in roti or dhokla, this millet elevates the taste as well. Bajra is rich in fibre, protein, magnesium, and iron. It’s particularly beneficial for people suffering from anemia due to its high iron content. Regular pearl millet consumption helps lower bad cholesterol, improve digestion due to its high fibre content, and manage blood pressure levels due to its magnesium content. It’s also a good grain for diabetics because it has a low glycemic index, meaning it releases sugar slowly into the bloodstream.
Foxtail Millet (Kakum / Kangni): Foxtail millet is a lesser-known type but is packed with health benefits. It’s rich in complex carbohydrates, making it a great alternative to refined grains. It also contains high levels of dietary fibre, helping to regulate blood sugar levels. Kakum packs lots of B vitamins like niacin and thiamine that are vital for creating energy and boosting metabolism. Plus, this grain gives you a fair share of protein and fibre, that’s great for digestion and long-lasting energy. Foxtail millet is great at controlling blood sugar levels, promoting a healthy heart, and bettering digestion. Thanks to its high fibre amounts, it’s a superstar at managing cholesterol and stopping excessive eating.
Finger Millet (Ragi): The nutritious millet rocks a reddish hue and an earthy flavour, packs with protein, calcium, and vitamin D. Ragi is the bone-strengthening, muscle-boosting champion warding off osteoporosis. It’s also adaptable when it comes to adding charm to different dishes like dosa, or porridge even. It is exceptionally high in calcium, making it ideal for strengthening bones and teeth. It is also rich in amino acids, iron, and antioxidants. The high calcium content of Ragi makes it perfect for children, the elderly, and anyone looking to boost their bone health. Its fibre-rich content aids digestion and helps control blood sugar levels, which is why it’s often recommended for diabetics. It’s also a great option for those looking to lose weight due to its ability to keep you feeling full for longer.
Browntop Millet (Korle): Korale has a brown hue with a mild flavour, is low on glycemic index but rich in thiamine, niacin, and riboflavin. It is known as the diabetes manager, blood pressure regulator, and skin health supporter.
Barnyard Millet (Sanwa): With a greenish hue and a soft texture, Sanwa is low-cal, high-fibre, and packed with iron, calcium, and phosphorus. It is the weight-watcher friend, digestive champion, and anaemia warrior. It is an excellent grain for those aiming to lose weight or manage their cholesterol levels. It also contains calcium, iron, and phosphorus, which are essential for bone health. The high fibre content of barnyard millet aids in digestion, regulates bowel movements, and helps in maintaining healthy blood sugar levels. Its low-calorie count makes it an ideal grain for those on a weight-loss journey.
Little Millet (Moraiyo): Moraiyo rocks a yellowish shade and a mild flavour. Low on fat but rich in protein, magnesium, potassium, and zinc, it’s the cholesterol warrior, constipation combatant, and nerve function booster. Little millet is rich in B vitamins, iron, and fibre. Its high dietary fibre content makes it excellent for digestive health and managing weight. The high fibre content helps regulate blood sugar levels, making it a good option for diabetics. Its rich nutrient content also supports overall health, including improved digestion and cardiovascular health.
Kodo Millet: With a light brown hue and a slightly bitter taste, Kodo is high in fibre, protein, and antioxidants. It’s the diabetes tamer, obesity warrior, arthritis ally, and asthma supporter. When added to different cuisines, Kodo transforms dishes like no other.
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