New York 28 February 2026

Is fasting beneficial or risky for fatty liver?

Is fasting beneficial or risky for fatty liver?

NYM Desk

Published: 09:15 PM, 28 February 2026

Fasting, in addition to spiritual practice, also changes the body's metabolism. It has an effect on the body due to prolonged fasting and changes in meal times. However, there is no single answer to the question of whether fasting is beneficial or risky for people with fatty liver. It depends on the condition of the disease and the physical ability of the person.

What is fatty liver

Fatty liver is a condition in which excess fat accumulates in the liver cells. The main causes are overweight, uncontrolled diabetes, high blood pressure, increased blood fat levels, and irregular lifestyle. Although there are no symptoms at first, complications such as inflammation, fibrosis, or cirrhosis can occur in the liver if neglected.

Who can benefit

According to doctors, fasting can be beneficial for those who have fatty liver in the early stages and normal liver function. If you do not eat for a long time, the body starts using the accumulated fat, which helps in weight loss. And weight control is the most important thing in fatty liver management. Eating a balanced diet while fasting reduces the strain on the liver by avoiding fried foods, excess sugar, and sweets.

Who is at risk

Fasting is not safe for all patients. For those with liver inflammation, high liver enzyme levels, or complications such as cirrhosis, prolonged fasting or dehydration may be harmful. Fasting may not be safe if you experience weakness, dizziness, nausea, or severe stomach pain.

Experts have emphasized that liver patients should consult a doctor before starting fasting.

Dietary advice during fasting

Eat less fried and oily foods during iftar

Keep sweets and sugar under control

Drink enough water from iftar to sehri

Eat vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and protein-rich foods

Avoid soft drinks and excess carbohydrates

According to experts, eating too much at night after not eating all day can do more harm than good. Many people think that eating any food in excess while fasting is wrong.

For those who take regular medications, the timing and dosage of the medication may need to be changed. The timing of the medication should not be changed or stopped without the advice of a doctor. It is better to get a liver function test done before starting the fast.

Symptoms to watch out for

Severe weakness, jaundice (yellowing of the eyes or skin), severe stomach pain, blood in vomit or vomit, unusual drowsiness or confusion during fasting may be signs of complications. If such symptoms occur, you should seek medical attention immediately.

All in all, fasting for fatty liver patients can be helpful in many cases to control weight and maintain normal metabolism, but it can also pose risks in complex situations. Therefore, individual doctor's advice should be the main guideline.

According to doctors, fasting itself is not harmful—the main problem is unconscious eating habits and uncontrolled diseases. If you are aware, it is possible to fast safely in many cases.

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