Metabolic Liver Disease Program

What is steatotic liver disease? 

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is a condition often associated with obesity, insulin-resistant diabetes and dyslipidemia (high cholesterol or fats in the blood) as well as other metabolic risk factors. MASLD is diagnosed by abnormal liver function tests or fat in the liver, and sometimes both. MASLD includes a range of liver damage, which can progress over time.

 

 


  • Steatosis means abnormal amounts of fat in the liver.
  • Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) can occur with steatosis, inflammation, and damage to hepatocytes (liver cells). MASH is reversible.
  • Fibrosis is the formation of scar tissue in the liver because of the damage caused by MASH. It is often progressive without treatment.
  • Cirrhosis is the build-up of scar tissue from fibrosis and cannot be reversed. This can lead to further complications, like liver cancer and liver failure.


You can improve your MASLD and even cure it through diet and lifestyle changes. Losing 3-5 percent of your body weight will kick-start the loss of fat in your liver, with a goal of less than 10 percent of total weight loss.

 

About MASLD

Why is MASLD Important?

Obesity has been on the rise in the U.S. since 1994. Today, more than one-third of Americans are obese. Learn more

What can you and your doctor do?

What dietary changes can you make to treat your MASLD? And what your doctor can do to help? Learn more.  

Is there more can you do?

The Sherrie and Alan Conover Center for Liver Disease & Transplantation in partnership with the Houston Methodist Weight Management Center can provide guided help to reduce your risk of MASLD in one comprehensive program. Learn more

Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease

One-third of Americans have metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, the accumulation of extra fat in liver cells not caused by alcohol. David Victor, MD, discusses how Houston Methodist doctors combine lifestyle modifications, dietary changes and medications to treat this disorder and ultimately prevent advanced liver disease.

Tips for Eating Out

There are ways to focus on your diet, even at a restaurant. Learn more

How to Eat Healthy When Ordering From a Delivery Service

Meal delivery services are certainly convenient, and the end result is restaurant-quality food sitting on your doorstep. But is ordering from a delivery service really any healthier than picking up fast food? Learn more.

Sample Meal Plans

Our meal plans can help you get started. Learn more

Hepatology Clinic at Sherrie and Alan Conover Center for Liver Disease & Transplantation
6445 Main Street
Outpatient Center, 22nd Floor
Houston, TX 77030 
713.441.8839