MASLD fatty liver disease self-care

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), formerly called nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), is a common liver disease that affects people who drink little or no alcohol. MASLD develops when fat builds up in the liver because of common conditions such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol and high blood pressure.

Because these metabolic conditions are at the root of the disease, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is now being used more often than nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

MASLD is more than just fat in the liver. It can progress to a more serious form of liver disease called metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), which was formerly called nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Over time, MASH can lead to complications such as heart disease, kidney conditions, liver scarring, also called fibrosis, or even liver failure and the need for a liver transplant.

Two medicines have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for this condition and may be prescribed depending on liver disease severity. Lifestyle changes remain the main way to prevent, manage and sometimes reverse MASLD.

MASLD fatty liver disease self-care

No alternative medicine treatments have been proved to cure MASLD. But researchers are studying whether some supplements or natural compounds might be helpful. These include:

Coffee. Some studies suggest that black caffeinated coffee may help the liver by reducing the risk of liver diseases such as MASLD and by lowering the chance of scarring. It's not yet clear exactly how coffee may prevent liver damage, but certain compounds in coffee are thought to lower inflammation and slow scar tissue growth.

That doesn't mean you should add a few high-sugar mocha lattes to your day. In fact, the extra sugar and fat in these drinks should be avoided by people who have MASLD. But if you enjoy a couple of cups of black coffee in the morning, feel good about continuing that routine.

Omega-3 fatty acids. Some studies have suggested that omega-3 fatty acids may improve liver fat in people with MASLD, but more research is needed.

Certain vitamins. For instance, vitamin E may have a role in improving liver fat and inflammation in MASLD. However, more information is needed to confirm these findings.

Talk to your healthcare team before taking any vitamins or supplements for MASLD.

MASLD fatty liver disease self-care

Making lifestyle changes can be hard. But even small positive changes can make a difference to your health. Here are some tips to help you make the changes necessary to successfully manage MASLD:

  • See your healthcare team regularly. Care team members can help shape your self-care program and work with you to track your progress. They also can connect you with helpful resources, such as appointments with a dietitian or behavioral therapist.
  • Seek out support groups. You can find MASLD support groups online, at your healthcare institution or through organizations such as the American Liver Foundation.
  • Use technology. Download mobile apps that help track your weight, activity and goals. These tools can help you lose weight, eat a healthier diet and improve liver health.
  • Set manageable goals. Work with your healthcare team to set lifestyle goals you can achieve. For instance, you might set a goal to take a walk at least five days a week. Make sure to celebrate your successes and increase your goals as time goes on.

Learn more about MASLD and clinical trials at Mayo Clinic.

Oct. 08, 2025

Original article: https://www.mayoclinic.org/es-es/diseases-conditions/nonalcoholic-fatty-liver-disease/in-depth/self-care-for-fatty-liver-disease-masld/art-20587289