What causes cirrhosis of the liver besides alcohol?

Poor metabolic health, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol are closely linked to non-alcoholic fatty liver, which can progress to cirrhosis. Keeping your metabolic markers under control with regular doctor visits is so important. Don't assume your liver is safe just because you don't drink.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is another major cause of cirrhosis. To diagnose this early, get basic liver function tests and an ultrasound done at a government hospital or via discount health packages. It is much cheaper to manage fatty liver early than to treat cirrhosis later.

I was reading about autoimmune hepatitis and certain genetic disorders like Wilson's disease which can also cause liver cirrhosis over time. It is crazy how the body's own immune system or a copper buildup can slowly scar the liver without any alcohol involved.

I always thought only heavy drinking caused liver damage, so this is very new to me. Can taking too many over-the-counter medicines or painkillers over a long time also cause liver cirrhosis?

NASH, or Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis, is a huge reason for liver cirrhosis these days due to highly processed diets and no physical activity. If your doctor clears you, focusing on a clean, whole-food diet and regular exercise is the best way to prevent liver fat buildup.