How is NAFLD diagnosed?
NAFLD is diagnosed through blood tests, ultrasound, FibroScan, and sometimes a liver biopsy to assess liver health and rule out other conditions.
Can NAFLD be reversed?
Yes. Weight loss, an improved diet, and regular physical activity can often reverse early-stage NAFLD and reduce liver fat.
What's the difference between NAFLD and NASH?
NASH (non-alcoholic steatohepatitis) includes inflammation and liver cell damage in addition to fat buildup, whereas NAFLD may involve fat accumulation alone.
What is the Fib-4 calculator?
The Fib-4 calculator is a non-invasive tool that estimates liver scarring by combining age, AST, ALT, and platelet count from your blood tests.
Is the Mediterranean diet good for NAFLD?
Yes. The Mediterranean diet-rich in vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats-supports liver health and can help reduce liver fat.
What are the risk factors for NAFLD?
Common risk factors include obesity, type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance, high cholesterol or triglycerides, poor diet, low physical activity, certain medications, and family history of liver disease.
Will I need a liver biopsy?
Not always. Many cases of NAFLD are assessed with blood tests and imaging. A biopsy is reserved for more complex or unclear cases to confirm inflammation and scarring.
How often should I check my liver?
Liver monitoring is typically recommended every 6 to 12 months, depending on your disease severity and your doctor's guidance.
Can children get NAFLD?
Yes. NAFLD is increasingly diagnosed in children and adolescents, especially in those with obesity or metabolic risk factors.
Where can I find an NAFLD specialist near Cypress?
GastroDoxs in Cypress has board-certified liver experts specializing in NAFLD care, offering personalized diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing support.
Medically Reviewed by
Dr. Bharat Pothuri, MD, FACG
| Updated 03-17-2026