Can Massaging Index Finger Cure Fatty Liver? What Experts Want You To Know

Too much fat accumulation can cause inflammation, potentially damaging the liver and leading to scarring. In severe cases, this scarring can result in liver failure. Recently, claims have surfaced suggesting that massaging the index finger can cure fatty liver. To know whether these claims are true, wecontactedDrPunit Singla, Director and Head of Liver Transplant and HPB Surgery at Marengo Asia Hospitals, Gurugram, who provided further insights.

Can Massaging Index Finger Cure Fatty Liver?

According to Dr Singla, the claim that massaging the index finger can cure fatty liver is misleading. He explained, "Such claims are often linked to acupuncture, but unfortunately, many people tend to believe in such treatments without scientific backing. There is no evidence in allopathic medicine to support the idea that massaging the index finger can cure fatty liver. The condition can only be diagnosed and monitored through proper medical tests, such as ultrasounds and blood tests. If these tests show improvements, we can confidently say that the fatty liver condition has improved.”

He emphasised how there is no evidence to suggest that massaging the index finger can have any impact on the liver. Fatty liver requires medical intervention and lifestyle changes, such as a healthy diet and regular exercise, to effectively manage and treat the condition.

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Symptoms Of Fatty Liver

According to the National Library of Medicine, most individuals with fatty liver disease do not show noticeable symptoms. However, some may report issues such as:

• Fatigue
• Discomfort in the right upper abdomen
• Hepatomegaly, which refers to an enlarged liver that exceeds its normal size.
• Acanthosis Nigricans, a skin condition characterised by dark, thick, velvety patches in body folds and creases
• Lipomatosis is a condition where multiple benign fat tumours, or lipomas, accumulate in the body.

Suggestions For Improving Liver Health Safely

Dr Singla emphasised that lifestyle changes can help improve fatty liver to some extent, particularly for individuals with grade 1 or grade 2 fatty liver. He recommended regular exercise, such as aerobics, for at least 40 minutes a day, four times a week, to help manage the condition.

He said, “Alongside exercise, maintaining a balanced diet rich in vegetables and fruits is crucial, while avoiding pre-cooked meals, packaged foods, and excessive consumption of westernised diets.”

He also advised focusing on a high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet and completely avoiding alcohol. Dr Singla stated that if someone with fatty liver makes these lifestyle changes such as eliminating alcohol and adopting a healthier diet they can significantly improve their condition, potentially restoring liver function to normal.

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While acupuncture may offer benefits for some health conditions, there is no scientific evidence to support the claim that it can cure fatty liver. Lifestyle changes, such as a balanced diet and regular exercise, remain the most effective approach for managing and improving the condition. Always consult with a healthcare professional for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

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Credits: Freepik