3 Pillars for Healthy Living With Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH)

Hey there! If you're living with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) or nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) symptoms, and you've read my previous articles, you probably already know one of the fastest and most effective ways I reversed my liver damage. I made simple lifestyle changes — eating healthily and exercising daily.

These daily habits and dietary choices helped me maintain a healthy liver and embrace healthy living with NASH.

Navigating the guilt that comes with a NASH diagnosis

One of the most prevalent causes of NASH is obesity, which is why we can sometimes struggle with guilt and shame when we overindulge, or when we join in on the festivities and have a cheeky mince pie or two. I am writing this article to you from the heart; you do not have to feel guilty for enjoying yourself, okay? One of the hardest but most effective things I have done for my mental and physical health is letting go of others' judgment.

My 3 pillars of healthy living with NASH

Here are the 3 lifestyle changes that helped me reverse my liver disease and heal my mental health along the way.

Pillar 1: Setting healthy boundaries

Setting boundaries for myself was one of the best things I did during my lifestyle changes and while reversing my liver disease. Boundaries give you the strength to stay true to your own needs. They stop the actions of others from swaying you, because what's good for someone else may not be good for you.

Remember, it is okay to say "no, thank you" to a friend who offers you a slice of cake. It is okay to order a non-alcoholic cocktail, even though not all of your friends are doing so. When you start applying these boundaries to your life, the people around you will begin to respect your needs. They'll also come to understand the importance of healthy living with NASH.

Pillar 2: Balancing compromise with smart dietary choices

One way I navigated weight loss was by showing myself kindness and making compromises. I love to snack throughout the day, so instead of cutting out snacking altogether, I changed what I snack on. Instead of a bag of crisps, I'll have an apple.

Another example is when I go out to eat: I'll only have water instead of a soft drink if I know I'll be getting a dessert. If I know I won't be eating dessert, I'll get a soft drink instead. That way, it's more of a treat to myself instead of an overindulgence that will make me feel guilty or ashamed. These small shifts are the foundation of healthy living with NASH.

Pillar 3: Making time to have fun

One of the most important lessons I've learned from being diagnosed with a chronic illness is that life is precious — and sometimes shorter than we realize. It's hard to find moments for reflection amid the chaos of daily life. But if you're doing your best to make the right decisions for you and your health, that's all that matters.

Joyful, healthy living with NASH is possible

Remember, healthy living with NASH doesn't mean the end of joy — quite the opposite. Small lifestyle changes and mindful dietary choices can add up to a life that's still full of fun. Well, that's all. Have fun while doing it!