Alcoholic vs. Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD): Causes & Risks

The two main forms of fatty liver disease are alcoholic fatty liver disease (AFLD) and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

Alcoholic fatty liver disease (AFLD) is caused by excessive alcohol consumption. It is the most common form of fatty liver disease in the United States. AFLD can range from a mild condition that does not cause any symptoms to a severe condition that can lead to liver failure.

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is caused by a buildup of fat in the liver that is not caused by alcohol consumption. NAFLD is the most common form of chronic liver disease in the United States. NAFLD can range from a mild condition that does not cause any symptoms to a severe condition that can lead to liver failure.

The risk factors for AFLD include:

* Excessive alcohol consumption

* Obesity

* Type 2 diabetes

* High blood pressure

* High cholesterol

The risk factors for NAFLD include:

* Obesity

* Type 2 diabetes

* High blood pressure

* High cholesterol

* Insulin resistance

* Certain medications

* Genetic factors