Although menopause is a natural transition in a woman’s life, it brings many hormonal and metabolic changes in the body. The decline in the hormone estrogen in particular can affect fat distribution, weight control and metabolic processes.
Research in recent years shows that the risk of fatty liver may increase after menopause. However, it cannot be said that menopause directly causes fatty liver. Instead, it is thought that the hormonal and metabolic changes that come with menopause may increase the risk.
Op. Dr. Alim Gökhan Kuşgöz, Obstetrician and Gynecologist at İzmir Özel Can Hastanesi, shared important information about menopause and fatty liver.
What Is Fatty Liver?
Fatty liver is a condition in which more fat than normal accumulates in the liver cells. Today, the term “Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD)” is also used for this condition.
In its early stages, it often causes no symptoms. As a result, many people find out they have fatty liver during routine blood tests or imaging.
How Does Menopause Affect Liver Health?
The hormone estrogen is thought to have various protective effects in the body. As estrogen levels decline after menopause:
- changes in fat distribution may occur,
- fat around the abdomen may increase,
- a tendency toward insulin resistance may develop,
- the risk of metabolic syndrome may rise.
These changes can create favorable conditions for fat to build up in the liver. Research shows that the risk of fatty liver in postmenopausal women is higher than in the premenopausal period.
Factors That May Increase the Risk of Fatty Liver After Menopause
Fatty liver is not related to menopause alone. Many different factors may play a role together.
These may include:
- overweight or obesity
- type 2 diabetes
- insulin resistance
- high cholesterol and triglyceride levels
- lack of physical activity
- metabolic syndrome
among others.
Therefore, it cannot be said that every woman in menopause will develop fatty liver.
What Are the Symptoms of Fatty Liver?
Fatty liver can progress for a long time without causing symptoms.
Some people may experience
- a feeling of tiredness
- weakness
- discomfort in the upper right abdomen
- generally low energy
as symptoms.
Because these symptoms can also occur with other health problems, a specialist’s opinion is necessary for a definitive evaluation.
What Can You Do to Support Liver Health During Menopause?
It may not always be possible to prevent fatty liver completely. However, certain lifestyle habits can help reduce the risk.
However, certain lifestyle habits can help reduce the risk.
A Balanced Diet
It may be recommended to include foods such as
- vegetables
- fruits
- whole grains
- legumes
- healthy sources of fat
in your diet.
Limiting excessive sugar, processed foods and high-calorie foods may also be important.
Regular Physical Activity
Regular exercise:
- can help with weight control,
- can support metabolic health,
- can help reduce the risk of fatty liver.
Healthy Weight Management
Reducing fat around the abdomen in particular is important for metabolic health. For people who are overweight, weight management programs planned under a doctor’s supervision can be beneficial.
The Importance of Regular Monitoring for Liver Health
During menopause, it is important to regularly evaluate not only hormonal changes but also overall metabolic health.
During this period,
- liver function tests
- blood sugar assessments
- cholesterol measurements
- monitoring of weight and waist circumference
can be planned in line with your doctor’s recommendations.
Regular women’s health assessments and appropriate check-up programs can help detect possible risks at an early stage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does menopause cause fatty liver?
Menopause does not directly cause fatty liver. However, the hormonal and metabolic changes that come with menopause can increase the risk.
Does the risk of fatty liver increase after menopause?
Research shows that the risk of fatty liver may increase in the postmenopausal period.
Does fatty liver cause symptoms?
In the early stages, it often causes no symptoms. Some people may experience tiredness and discomfort in the abdominal area.
What kind of diet is recommended for liver health during menopause?
A balanced eating plan rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains and healthy fats may be recommended.
Is it necessary to have a check-up after menopause?
Regular health check-ups can be planned according to your individual health status. Monitoring is especially important for people with metabolic risk factors.
The information on our website is not intended to direct individuals to any treatment. Do not take any diagnostic or treatment steps without consulting your doctor. The content does not contain information about İzmir Can Hastanesi's therapeutic healthcare services.
