What Causes Fatty Liver Disease in Children?
There are multiple possible causes of fatty liver disease in children, including an unhealthy diet, lack of exercise, obesity, genetics, and other factors. Fatty liver disease, also known as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease or NAFLD, is a condition where fat builds up in the liver. This disease can be diagnosed in children. Emerging research suggests ultra-processed food consumption may be responsible for an increase in NAFLD in people under 18.
The disease is most often diagnosed in people who are overweight or obese. Children who have a diet high in ultra-processed foods, do not exercise, or are prediabetic may be at a higher risk of developing the condition.
As more children are diagnosed with pediatric fatty liver disease, their parents and guardians are looking for answers. Some parents are pursuing legal action against the makers of ultra-processed foods, saying products made by these companies led children to develop NAFLD and other serious health conditions.
About What Causes Fatty Liver Disease in Children:
About Fatty Liver Disease in Children
What Is Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)?
Prevalence of Fatty Liver Disease in Children and Adolescents
Fatty Liver Disease Demographics for Children
Characteristics of Children with Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Ultra-Processed Foods Linked to Childhood Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
What Are the Risks of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Children?
Diagnosis and Treatment of Fatty Liver Disease in Children
King Law Is Accepting Ultra-Processed Food Lawsuits for Children with NAFLD
About Fatty Liver Disease in Children
Fatty liver disease is the most commonly diagnosed type of liver disease in the world, and the disease is becoming more common in children. Children are increasingly diagnosed with a type of fatty liver disease called non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) or metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MDASLD). Experts believe the increase in prevalence is due to poor diet, obesity, and an overconsumption of ultra-processed foods (UPFs).
Some experts estimate that 7.6% of all children in the U.S. and 34% of obese children in the U.S. have some form of fatty liver disease. The increase in the number of children diagnosed with fatty liver disease is believed to be linked to a number of lifestyle factors. Complications from fatty liver disease include severe liver scarring or cirrhosis, liver cancer, and liver failure.
What Is Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)?
Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) is caused by a buildup of fat in the liver that is unrelated to alcohol consumption. NAFLD is now commonly known as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MDASLD). In children, fatty liver disease is most often attributed to a poor diet and the associated diseases or metabolic imbalances. Experts have found a connection between fatty liver disease and metabolic disorders, such as type 2 diabetes. Reducing a child’s intake of ultra-processed foods may help to reduce their overall risk of getting NAFLD.
Risk factors of NAFLD:
- Family history of fatty liver disease
- Obesity
- Insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes
- Growth hormone deficiency
- Metabolic syndrome
- High cholesterol or triglycerides
Fatty liver disease can range in severity. It is a chronic condition that can be progressive. It can lead to steatosis, which occurs when fat accumulates in the liver without inflammation of the liver. As the disease progresses, it may become non-alcoholic steatohepatitis or NASH. As NASH advances, it causes the liver to swell and become inflamed, leading to liver damage. The damage may lead to scarring or cirrhosis. In later stages, the disease may cause enough damage to be irreversible, resulting in liver failure and the need for a liver transplant.
Prevalence of Fatty Liver Disease in Children and Adolescents
The prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease among children and adolescents is increasing. A 2023 study found that NAFLD in the general pediatric population ranged between 7 to 9%. In obese children, the rate of the disease was 38 to 41%. Among adults, the prevalence of the disease is between 32 and 38%, increasing from 26% in 2005.
Evidence suggests that the rise in NAFLD rates may be linked to an increased consumption of ultra-processed foods. Ultra-processed foods or UPFs have been connected to an increased risk of certain diet-related conditions, including type 2 diabetes and fatty liver disease in children.
Fatty Liver Disease Demographics for Children
Research indicates that certain children may have a higher risk of developing fatty liver disease. The increased risk may be related to difficulty accessing healthy foods, genetics, or socioeconomic factors.
Ethnic and Racial Differences in Childhood NAFLD
Studies show that Hispanic and Asian children may be at a higher risk of developing non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). While research is still ongoing, experts believe that the increased risk may be related to genetic factors, as well as dietary habits. A growing number of scientists have found a link between overconsumption of ultra-processed foods, such as junk foods, fast food, packaged snacks, and premade meals, and the development of fatty liver disease in children.
Gender and NAFLD Prevalence
Gender may also play a role in whether a child is more or less likely to develop non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. While the exact reasoning is unclear, NAFLD is more common in boys compared to girls. Adolescent females, however, may be at a higher risk for developing a severe case of the disease. Potential factors that may contribute to the disparity in diagnoses between the genders include hormonal, genetic, and metabolic differences in the sexes.
Socioeconomic Risk Factors
Another risk factor for developing NAFLD is socioeconomic status. Children from lower-income households have a higher chance of developing the disease. It is believed that this may be due to the fact that lower-income households may have a greater reliance on ultra-processed foods (UPFs), which are often less expensive and more widely available than their healthier alternatives. Additionally, lower-income families may face economic barriers to fresh foods, which can increase their reliance on these nutrient-poor foods. However, it is important to note that many children who are not socio-economically challenged (considered poor) are still diagnosed with fatty liver diseases at high rates.
Characteristics of Children with Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Children with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease often have many of the same characteristics. For instance, the disease is commonly diagnosed in children who are overweight or obese. Around one-third (34%) of obese children have fatty liver disease.
Obesity and High BMI
Children with obesity and a high body mass index are significantly more likely to be diagnosed with fatty liver disease compared to those who do not fall into these categories. A 2021 study published in BMC Pediatrics found that the prevalence in obese children with Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease that had progressed to Non-Alcoholic Fatty Hepatitis (NASH) was closely related to a high BMI and other factors such as insulin resistance and hyperuricemia.
Insulin Resistance and Metabolic Syndrome
In addition to obesity and a high BMI, children are more likely to develop NAFLD if they have insulin resistance or metabolic syndrome. Risk factors for pediatric fatty liver disease include metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes. Studies indicate that there has been a significant increase in the number of children diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, which may be linked to increased consumption of ultra-processed foods. Almost all children with NAFLD are insulin-resistant.
High Triglycerides and Cholesterol Levels
High triglyceride and cholesterol levels may also contribute to fat buildup in the liver, resulting in the development of fatty liver disease in children. In fatty liver disease, triglycerides collect on the liver. Experts believe that this may be due to lipid imbalances caused by a diet lacking in nutrients, as well as metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes.
Sedentary Lifestyle and Poor Diet
Finally, a major risk factor for children developing non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a sedentary lifestyle or unhealthy diet. Eating a diet heavy in ultra-processed foods and not getting a sufficient amount of exercise reduces the body’s ability to burn fat and properly metabolize food. This can lead to an increase in fat accumulation in the liver, ultimately causing fatty liver disease. Children who eat high amounts of junk food may be unknowingly affecting their livers.
Ultra-Processed Foods Linked to Childhood Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Ultra-processed foods or foods that have undergone significant industrial processing often have a significant number of added sugars, salts, flavor enhancers, preservatives, and unhealthy fats. Ultra-processed foods are different than processed foods such as milk, tomato sauce, or other minimally processed foods. When consumed in large amounts, these foods can cause substantial health issues, including the development of obesity, insulin resistance, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in children. It is believed that a diet lacking whole, nutrient-rich foods may cause the liver to accumulate fat, resulting in this dangerous condition.
A study published in JHEP Reports found that consumption of ultra-processed foods is not only associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes and obesity, but it may also be a major risk factor in the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. The rise in NAFLD in children directly corresponds with increased availability and consumption of UPFs. Legal documents allege that the manufacturers aggressively marketed these products to children, potentially fueling the increase in problematic health conditions.
What Are the Risks of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Children?
While non-alcoholic fatty liver disease ranges in severity, left untreated, it can have long-term health consequences. Eventually, the condition may lead to liver failure and require the child or adult to have a liver transplant.
Progression to NASH and Cirrhosis
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) can range in severity. It generally begins as fatty liver or hepatic steatosis and progresses to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). NASH is a serious liver disease that can lead to scarring (fibrosis), cirrhosis, and eventually severe liver damage.
Increased Risk of Type 2 Diabetes
Children with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease may also have a significantly higher risk of developing metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes. It is believed that the accumulation of fat in the liver may contribute to insulin resistance. The resistance to insulin may make it harder for the body to regulate blood sugar levels, resulting in type 2 diabetes.
Cardiovascular Risks
Finally, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in children may lead to an increased risk of cardiovascular problems such as high blood pressure and heart disease. Fatty liver disease is marked by an accumulation of fat in the liver, which can contribute to inflammation, resistance to insulin, and lipid imbalances. Each of these factors may elevate a child’s risk of having an adverse cardiovascular event.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Fatty Liver Disease in Children
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is diagnosed by a healthcare professional. Common diagnostic tests include blood tests, imaging, and a liver biopsy. It is important to seek medical treatment immediately if a child is exhibiting symptoms that may be associated with fatty liver disease.
Diagnosis: How Doctors Detect NAFLD
Fatty liver disease is most often diagnosed through blood tests and imaging. In some cases, a doctor may order a liver biopsy to determine the stage or severity of the disease. If a liver problem is suspected, a doctor may order a liver function panel, which includes ALT (alanine aminotransferase) and AST (aspartate aminotransferase). These two tests can help to detect any inflammation or damage to the liver.
If a blood test is not definitive, a doctor may order imaging to complete the diagnosis. Common imaging procedures include an abdominal ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or computerized tomography (CT) scanning. These procedures can help to ensure a proper diagnosis and determine the extent of fat accumulation or damage to the liver.
Treatment: How to Reverse Fatty Liver in Children
Treatment for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease usually begins with weight loss. Gradual weight loss can decrease many of the negative health outcomes associated with fatty liver disease. Much of the damage caused by this type of liver disease can be reversed through lifestyle changes, such as modifications to a child’s diet. Eating less ultra-processed foods and getting more exercise can help to prevent and treat the condition. However, the disease is often not fully reversible.
King Law Is Accepting Ultra-Processed Food Lawsuits for Children with NAFLD
King Law is currently accepting claims related to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and ultra-processed foods. Parents of children diagnosed with NAFLD may be able to take legal action against the manufacturers of UPFs for knowingly marketing unhealthy foods to children and failing to warn consumers about the potential harm. King Law is committed to seeking justice on behalf of families affected by UPFs and holding manufacturers accountable for their wrongdoing.
Contact an Ultra-Processed Food Attorney Today
Parents of children diagnosed with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease after consuming ultra-processed foods are encouraged to contact King Law to schedule a free, no-obligation case evaluation. Our team can help you understand how to file an ultra-processed food lawsuit. All cases are accepted on a contingency-fee basis, meaning there are no upfront costs associated with representation. Contact King Law today at (585) 326-8551 or fill out a free consultation form online to get started.