The liver, a vital organ responsible for approximately 500 different functions, plays a crucial role in filtering toxins, aiding digestion, storing energy, and participating in nutrient metabolism. Liver disease has become a pressing global concern. The main culprits behind liver malfunction are alcoholic fatty liver disease (AFLD) and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). NAFLD alone burdens 882.1 million people worldwide.
In this review, we will take a look at the book ‘Skinny Liver’ which aims to raise awareness about NAFLD and provides practical strategies to protect and improve liver health.
About the authors

Kristin Kirkpatrick, manager of wellness nutrition services at the Cleveland Clinic Wellness Institute, is a prominent figure in nutrition and wellness. She oversees programs to help people lose weight and treat various diseases. Many patients seek her assistance for issues like weight loss, high cholesterol, and elevated blood sugar levels.

Ibrahim Hanouneh, MD, is a highly respected liver disorders expert and associate physician in gastroenterology and hepatology at Cleveland Clinic.
What is the book about?

‘Skinny Liver’ sheds light on the silent crisis of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) affecting a significant portion of the world’s population. The book raises awareness about the hidden nature of NAFLD, where symptoms often appear only when the condition becomes severe, leaving many individuals unaware of their risk. Understanding and protecting the liver, a vital organ, are paramount.
The book is divided into three parts. In Part 1, the authors provide a comprehensive understanding of a healthy liver’s functions and how lifestyle choices impact liver health. They explore newly recognised liver problems and the factors contributing to NAFLD and NASH.
Part 2 focuses on prescriptive principles to maintain optimal liver health. It includes adopting healthy dietary and exercise habits, effective weight management, sufficient sleep, stress management, and avoiding toxic exposures. Lifestyle modifications can help prevent or reverse liver problems, promoting better overall health.
In Part 3, the book presents an action plan to implement these principles and lifestyle changes, offering readers a fresh opportunity to improve their liver and overall well-being. This lifestyle makeover aims to give the liver and body a second chance at better health.
Table of contents

- Cover
- Title Page
- Copyright
- Foreword, Michael F. Roizen, MD
- Introduction: A Healthy Liver Promotes a Healthy Life
- Part 1. Say Hello to Your Liver
- 1. Your Body’s Hard-Working, Multitasking Organ
- 2. The Latest Silent Killers: NAFLD and NASH
- 3. Eat, Drink, and Be Healthier
- 4. Everyday Toxins and Other Surprising Dangers from Modern Life
- Part 2. Showing Your Liver a Little Love
- 5. Liver Love: Basic Steps and Strategies
- 6. Move It: The Protective Role of Exercise
- 7. Liver-Friendly Eating Strategies
- 8. Reclaiming the Kitchen (and Your Eating Habits)
- Part 3. Creating a Healthy Feature for Your Liver
- 9. The Love-Your-Liver Eating Plan
- 10. The Skinny Liver Diet
- 11. Putting the Pieces Together
- 12. Other Treatments
- Conclusion: Liver for Life
- Appendix A: Recipes
- Appendix B: Metric Conversions Chart
- Appendix C: Stress-Trigger Tracking Sheet
- Appendix D: Healthy Liver Weekly Journal
- Acknowledgments
- Selected References
- Recipe Index
- Index
Key takeaways from ‘Skinny Liver’ to achieve optimal liver health

1Limit alcohol consumption
Alcohol consumption can significantly impact liver health. Approximately 90% of individuals who regularly consume over 40 grams of alcohol per day, equivalent to around two glasses of wine, are likely to develop alcohol-related fatty liver disease. For better liver health, it is essential to moderate alcohol consumption or consider abstinence, especially if there is a family history of liver cirrhosis or obesity.
2Engage in physical activity
This book emphasises the critical role of regular exercise in improving liver health, especially in individuals with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Research shows that engaging in both aerobic and resistance training significantly reduces the risk of NAFLD and can help in its reversal. Exercise not only aids in weight loss and fat reduction but also enhances insulin sensitivity and liver function. Furthermore, yoga and stretching exercises have unique benefits for the liver and overall health. Developing a consistent exercise routine is essential for maintaining a healthy liver and preventing liver-related problems.
3Adopt a healthy diet
In the quest to improve liver health and reverse conditions like metabolic syndrome and NAFLD, two dietary patterns stand out as highly beneficial: the Mediterranean diet and the low glycemic index diet. The Mediterranean diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats, fish, and moderate amounts of wine and dairy, has been shown to reduce inflammation and promote better blood sugar and lipid control. This plan is sustainable and effective for weight loss and overall health improvement. On the other hand, the low GI diet, which emphasises slow-digesting, fibre-rich foods like legumes, nuts, and whole grains, can enhance liver health by improving insulin resistance. Both diets are filled with liver health superstars like phytochemicals, omega-3 fatty acids, fibre, probiotics, soy proteins, and various spices. By adopting these dietary approaches and incorporating liver-friendly foods, individuals can significantly improve their liver function and overall well-being.
4Prioritise good-quality sleep
Insufficient sleep on a regular basis can lead to liver dysfunction and disrupt hormone levels related to appetite regulation, potentially promoting weight gain and harming the liver. Aim for seven to nine hours of sleep per night, establish a consistent sleep schedule, and avoid stimulants before bedtime. If you have a sleep disorder, consult a sleep specialist for proper diagnosis and treatment.
5Manage stress
Chronic stress can make you more vulnerable to liver disorders due to increased levels of stress hormones and inflammation. Uncontrolled stress may lead to the development of NAFLD. It’s crucial to find healthy ways to cope with stress, such as exercise, relaxation techniques, and seeking support from loved ones or professionals. Prioritising stress management can have a positive impact on liver health and overall well-being.
Strengths and weaknesses, according to readers’ reviews

Strengths
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Provides an in-depth and well-researched look at NAFLD.
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Offers appealing and manageable food plans and recipes specifically designed to support liver health.
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Presented in an understandable and interesting manner, making complex medical information relatable and encouraging readers.
Weaknesses
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Some readers may find the information in the dietary section to be basic and generic, covering well-known concepts.
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Specific nutrition recommendations may not be suitable for everyone, particularly people with certain health conditions like diabetes, metabolic syndrome, or heart disease.
Best quotes from ‘Skinny Liver’

“…the liver is involved in all of the body’s central metabolic processes, including the metabolism of carbohydrates, protein, and fats and the conversion of these macronutrients into forms of energy the body can readily use.”
“When it comes to normal brain function, the liver may in fact be the most important organ due to its ability to remove toxins from the blood. When this doesn’t happen, the brain can suffer the consequences. For example, when the liver is damaged and can’t remove or neutralize toxins (such as ammonia) from the blood, the toxins can build up in the bloodstream and travel to the brain where they damage the nervous system.”
“Yoga offers the added benefit of providing specific perks to your liver. In a 2014 study published in the European Scientific Journal, researchers who examined the effects of one and a half months of yoga therapy on adults between the ages of twenty and fifty found that those who developed the yoga habit experienced decreases in their ALP (alkaline phosphatase) levels and they lost weight.”
Final takeaway

‘Skinny Liver’ is a highly informative and insightful book that sheds light on the silent crisis of NAFLD and emphasises the importance of understanding and protecting the liver for overall well-being. The authors offer a comprehensive understanding of liver health, the impact of lifestyle choices, and practical strategies to maintain optimal liver function.
The book is an essential read for anyone wanting to safeguard and improve their liver health, especially those affected by or at risk of NAFLD.
Where to buy
You may purchase ‘Skinny Liver’ on Amazon at the best price. It is available in paperback, hardcover, audio and Kindle versions, so you may choose an option that appeals to you the most.