4 Things Doctors Recommend When You’re Diagnosed with MASLD

Finding out that you have MASLD (metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease) can feel overwhelming. You may be facing a whirlwind of emotions, questions about your health and uncertainty about what comes next. The good news is that there are practical steps you can take to manage this condition effectively, with some being a great first step once you receive this diagnosis.

Throughout this article, we’ll break down what doctors often suggest as the first steps to address MASLD. Whether it’s understanding the basics of your diagnosis, exploring lifestyle changes or knowing what conversations to have with your health care provider, we’ve got you covered.

What Is MASLD?

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is a condition where excess fat accumulates in the liver, often associated with metabolic factors like obesity, diabetes or high cholesterol. Previously known as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), MASLD occurs when fat builds up in liver cells without significant alcohol intake as the cause. “For many people, it does not cause any symptoms at first—maybe just some fatigue or mild discomfort—but it’s a signal that your metabolism needs some attention,” explained Pamela Tambini, M.D., a double board-certified physician in internal medicine and addiction medicine, leading the clinical team as medical director at Engage Wellness. “Left unchecked, MASLD can progress to more serious conditions like MASH (a more aggressive form involving inflammation), cirrhosis or even liver cancer,” Tambini added.

MASLD is often linked to lifestyle and health conditions like overweight, type 2 diabetes or high cholesterol. When the body takes in more added sugar and saturated fats, the liver can end up overwhelmed, leading to fat buildup. Genetics and hormonal changes can also play a role. Different from other types of fatty liver disease, MASLD is not caused by alcohol consumption, but rather by these other factors that can accumulate liver damage over time.

The good news is that MASLD can be manageable and, in some cases, reversible with lifestyle adjustments. If you receive this diagnosis, here are some things doctors suggest you do first.

1. Take a Breath

“If you have just been told you have MASLD, take a breath,” advised Tambini. “You are not alone, and you are not powerless. MASLD is very common, especially in people with conditions like obesity, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure or high cholesterol.”

“MASLD is often manageable, and even reversible, with the proper steps,” Tambini encouraged. Panicking or feeling overwhelmed won’t help; instead, focus on what you can do to improve your health. Remember, small, consistent changes can make a big difference over time.

2. Evaluate Your Alcohol Intake

“If intake is high, reducing alcohol to a moderate level [is advised], as too much alcohol intake can potentiate fatty damage in the liver,” explained Gareth Morris-Stiff, M.D., Ph.D., a physician and global chief medical officer at The Liver Clinic. Alcohol can exacerbate fat accumulation in the liver, worsening the condition and potentially leading to inflammation or scarring. Continuing to drink alcohol also increases the risk of liver cirrhosis, which is a severe and irreversible stage of liver damage. Additionally, abstaining from alcohol provides the liver a better chance to heal and improves overall metabolic health, which is vital for managing MASLD effectively.

Data published in the Journal of Hepatology showed that even low-to-moderate alcohol consumption is associated with increased fibrosis in individuals with MASLD. Liver fibrosis is the buildup of scar tissue in the liver caused by long-term damage or inflammation, and can affect its ability to function properly.

3. Follow a Balanced Diet

Certain foods should be limited if you have MASLD to help support your health. But Tambini explained that you don’t need to follow a fad diet to see success. There are some foods that may be something to keep an eye on, though. “Limit added sugars, refined grains and ultra-processed foods with a MASLD diagnosis,” Tambini advised. 

An international multidisciplinary expert consensus published in Metabolism confirmed these suggestions, saying that people with this condition should follow these tips to support liver health. “Aim for a Mediterranean diet with lots of colorful produce, healthy fats, lean proteins and whole grains,” explained Tambini.

4. Protect Your Liver

If you’ve been diagnosed with MASLD, it may be a good idea to check if you’re up to date on your hepatitis A and B vaccinations. These vaccines help protect your liver, which is already under strain, from additional harm caused by these infections should you become infected.

Hepatitis A and B can cause serious liver damage or complications, particularly if your liver is already affected by MASLD. Staying current with these vaccines is a simple way to reduce the risk of further issues and safeguard your overall health. If you’re unsure about your vaccine status, talk to your health care provider. If you have concerns about taking vaccines, share them with your health care provider to get accurate information and address any concerns. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends hepatitis A and hepatitis B vaccination for people who have any chronic liver disease.

Other Tips for Managing MASLD

Once you take care of the immediate things when you receive a MASLD diagnosis, consider embracing these strategies as well:

• Stay Physically Active: Engage in regular physical activity, such as walking, jogging or strength-training, to help reduce fat in the liver and improve overall metabolic health. “Regular physical activity can reduce liver fat, improve insulin sensitivity and support weight loss,” shared Tambini. “Start with what is doable for you. Even 30 minutes daily, most days of the week, can make a real difference,” she added.
• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Aim for gradual and sustainable weight loss if you’re overweight, as even a small reduction in body weight can significantly improve MASLD symptoms. “Losing just 5% to 10% of your body weight can dramatically reduce the amount of fat and inflammation in your liver,” per Tambini.
• Evaluate other aspects of your health: “MASLD does not happen in a vacuum,” shared Tambini. “It is closely tied to metabolic health. So, if you have been diagnosed, it is worth checking in on your blood sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol and weight. Managing these conditions with lifestyle changes—and medication when needed—can help prevent MASLD from worsening.”

The Bottom Line

Being diagnosed with MASLD might initially feel overwhelming, but it is also an invitation to take control of your health. While the condition is linked to lifestyle and metabolic factors, the good news is that it is often manageable with the right knowledge and a proactive approach. Whether through improving your diet, staying active or addressing risk factors like high cholesterol or diabetes, small, intentional lifestyle changes can lead to significant improvements in your liver health over time. Additionally, staying connected with your health care provider ensures personalized guidance and ongoing support.