English: This is a diagram depicting the rise of overweight among ages 2-19 in the US. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the most common causes of chronic liver disease. Based on the available data, NAFLD is estimated to occur in one-third of the general population in the US and is increasing globally . The prevalence of childhood obesity and NAFLD is at similar levels. NAFLD has been observed in all ethnic groups with the highest prevalence seen in Hispanics compared with Caucasians and African Americans.
An excellent article by Anahard O’Connor in the NYT follows on this increasing problem. No one knows for sure what the cause is, but recent research suggests sugar in the form of high fructose corn syrup being so ubiquitous in the processed food supply may contribute. Many manufacturers are removing this sugar from their products but we still should check the ingredient labels for its presence. Check out the Comments section following the article – quite good.
FOOD, FACTS and FADS 