Treatment Gastroenterology

Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Treatments

Currently, the goal of treatment for NAFLD patients who are obese and/or have elevated blood lipids (fat) is weight loss. Those who are diabetic with poor control of blood sugar should work with a diabetes specialist and dietitian to control their blood sugar. All patients with NAFLD should avoid alcohol.

The treatment for NAFLD is evolving and rigorously being investigated in various research studies. UCSF is participating in one of the larger trials investigating NAFLD and new therapies for the condition.

Liver Transplantation

In some cases, NAFLD may progress to liver failure and require liver transplantation. The evaluation for a transplant is complex and generally requires several months. Therefore, even patients who are feeling well should be referred for a transplant at the first sign of liver failure or if they have advanced liver disease diagnosed by X-ray studies or liver biopsy.

UCSF Health medical specialists have reviewed this information. It is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of your doctor or other health care provider. We encourage you to discuss any questions or concerns you may have with your provider.

Treatments we specialize in

Recommended reading

After Living Liver Donor Surgery

See what to expect following the surgery, from how long you'll be in the hospital to pain management, when you can eat and drink again, and whether you'll have a scar.

FAQ: Living Liver Donor

Get answers to important questions such as how you qualify to be a donor, what the first and next steps are in the process, why your blood type is important, and confidentiality.

Evaluation to be a Living Liver Donor

Find out what the evaluation process is like, whether it's covered by insurance, when you'll know if you're eligible to be a liver donor, and more.

FAQ: Getting a Liver Transplant

Find commonly asked questions regarding getting a liver transplant including, who gets priority, whether there's a way to expedite the process, and more.

Liver Transplant Glossary

Use this Liver Transplant Glossary to help you understand some of the esoteric language and terms including, Angiogram, Echocardiogram, Sclerotherapy, and more.

Living Donor Liver Transplant: The Facts

In the U.S., there are over 17,000 patients on the liver waiting list, but only enough donated livers to perform about 5,000 transplants per year. Learn more.

Seeking care at UCSF Health

Expand Map

    Share