MASLD

MASLD stands for Metabolic Associated Steatotic Liver Disease.
It is the newer name for what used to be called NAFLD, or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

MASLD means there is a build-up of fat in the liver. In many people this does not cause symptoms, but it can increase the risk of liver inflammation, scarring, and future liver problems.

What is MASLD linked to?

MASLD is commonly linked with:

• Being overweight or obese

• Type 2 diabetes

• High blood pressure

• High cholesterol

• Heart disease and stroke risk factors

The same lifestyle changes that help your heart health can also help reduce the risk of MASLD getting worse.

Weight loss

Weight loss can reduce the risk of MASLD progressing. It may also help lower the risk of type 2 diabetes, cancer and high blood pressure.

Even a small amount of weight loss can help. If liver scarring is present, around 5% weight loss is often recommended.

Diet advice

What you eat is important, not just how much you eat. Try to:

• Reduce sugar

• Eat less saturated fat

• Reduce salt

• Eat more fruit, vegetables and fibre

• Choose balanced meals where possible

Useful resources include:

• NHS Eatwell Guide

• NHS Inform Food and Nutrition

• My Diabetes My Way Scotland

Alcohol

It is important to keep alcohol within recommended limits. Alcohol can add extra strain to the liver and is also high in calories.

If you have established liver disease, your medical team may recommend avoiding alcohol completely.

Exercise

UK guidance recommends:

• 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week
  or

• 75 minutes of vigorous exercise each week
  plus

• 2 strength-based sessions weekly

Moderate exercise means you can talk, but not sing.

Follow-up

Some patients may not need routine liver clinic follow-up. Your GP practice may arrange repeat blood tests and calculate a FIB-4 score every few years to check for any signs of progression.

If you have concerns about your liver health, symptoms, or alcohol intake, please contact your GP practice for advice.