How to Reverse Fatty Liver (MASLD) | What Actually Works

About 4.5 million U.S. adults are living with liver disease — and many don’t know it. In this episode of On Nutrition, we separate liver health facts from internet hype and explain what actually supports your liver (and what’s just expensive urine). Host and registered dietitian Tara Schmidt is joined by transplant clinical dietitian Heather Hamlett to break down: • Why “detox” supplements don’t work • What your liver actually does (more than 500 functions) • The difference between MASLD and MASH — and why the name changed • How fatty liver disease can be reversed • When liver damage becomes cirrhosis • Why MASH-related cirrhosis is now a leading cause of liver transplant • What to eat before and after a liver transplant • Whether coffee helps your liver (the research says yes) • If intermittent fasting is safe for liver health You’ll learn why limiting alcohol and added sugars matters, how 7% to 10% weight loss can reduce liver fat, and why 30 minutes of daily movement can make a measurable difference — even without major weight loss. We also discuss warning signs of liver dysfunction, including swelling, itchy skin, pale stools, fatigue and jaundice — and who should ask their clinician about liver enzyme testing. The bottom line? Your liver already detoxes your body. Supporting it doesn’t require cleanses or powders — just consistent, evidence-based habits. If you want clear, science-backed guidance on protecting your liver — or preventing MASLD from progressing — this episode is for you. Listen to more On Nutrition episodes at: https://mcpress.mayoclinic.org/podcas... Have a nutrition question? Leave us a voicemail at (507) 538-6272, and we may answer it in a future episode.