A long-term study has revealed that isolation, avoiding social interactions, and not spending time with family and friends increase the risk of developing fatty liver disease.
According to research published in a medical journal, Chinese experts analyzed data from 400,000 individuals to examine their lifestyles and associated diseases. The data was obtained from the UK Biobank, where researchers conducted an in-depth study to determine the common causes of fatty liver disease.
Fatty liver disease is a widespread condition globally, where fat accumulates in liver cells, commonly referred to as liver fat. Several factors contribute to fatty liver, including alcohol and smoking, but dietary habits and obesity are major causes.
When liver fat accumulation is not due to alcohol consumption, it is classified as Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD). This common condition is treated through various medical approaches, including dietary restrictions.
However, Chinese researchers have now found that fatty liver disease can also be linked to social isolation and a lack of social interaction.
Experts suggest that socially isolated individuals are more likely to experience obesity, increasing their risk of diabetes and substance addiction, including smoking and alcohol consumption.
They further noted that lack of social interaction affects individuals’ lifestyles, significantly altering their physical activities, which increases the risk of developing fatty liver disease.
The study found that individuals living in isolation have a 22% higher risk of developing fatty liver disease, while those with limited social interactions face a 13% increased risk.
Additionally, researchers associated social isolation with depression and other mental health issues.
