Liver Health disorders are on the rise due to modern lifestyles characterized by poor diet, stress, and lack of exercise. Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) is one of the most prevalent conditions and can progress to cirrhosis or liver failure if not managed properly. This case study follows the journey of Mr. Rajiv Sharma, a 42-year-old corporate executive from Delhi, India, who reversed his early-stage liver disease through a structured combination of medical treatment, lifestyle changes, and yoga therapy.
Table of Contents
Patient Background:
- Name: Rajiv Sharma
- Age: 42
- Occupation: Marketing Manager
- Lifestyle: Sedentary, high-stress, irregular meals, occasional alcohol use
- Initial Symptoms: Fatigue, bloating, mild abdominal discomfort, elevated liver enzymes
Initial Medical Diagnosis:
Rajiv visited Doctor, a hepatologist, who was concerned about his persistent fatigue and digestive issues. After a thorough physical examination and a liver function test (LFT), the following was found:
- ALT/AST Levels: Significantly elevated
- Ultrasound: Mild fatty infiltration of the liver
- Diagnosis: Grade 1 Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)
Medical Treatment Plan:
The doctor advised a combination of dietary changes, mild exercise, and medications:
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Medications Prescribed:
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Vitamin E (400 IU daily): For antioxidant support
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Silymarin (Milk Thistle Extract): For liver cell repair
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Metformin (low dose): Due to borderline insulin resistance
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Dietary Recommendations:
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Low-fat, high-fiber diet
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Complete elimination of alcohol
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Increase in fruits, vegetables, and water intake
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Lifestyle Advice: At least 30 minutes of physical activity daily
Introduction to Yoga Therapy:
Rajiv was also referred to Ayush Wellness Centre, where a yoga therapist designed a tailored yoga program to support his liver health, reduce stress, and aid detoxification.
Yoga Practice and Techniques:
Initial Phase (Week 1–4):
Focus: Gentle movement, breath awareness, stress reduction
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Asanas:
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Supta Matsyendrasana (Reclined Spinal Twist): Improves liver blood flow
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Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose): Stimulates abdominal organs
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Pawanmuktasana (Wind-Relieving Pose): Enhances digestion
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Pranayama:
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Anulom Vilom (Alternate Nostril Breathing): Reduces stress
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Kapalbhati (Skull Shining Breath): Aids detox, stimulates liver
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Duration: 30 minutes daily, 6 days/week
Mid-Phase (Week 5–12):
Focus: Strengthening organs, deep detoxification, improving metabolism
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New Asanas Introduced:
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Dhanurasana (Bow Pose): Stimulates the liver and pancreas
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Ardha Matsyendrasana (Half Spinal Twist): Detoxifies and tones liver
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Naukasana (Boat Pose): Strengthens core and abdominal organs
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Pranayama Continued: Increased duration of Kapalbhati to 5 minutes
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Added: Agnisar Kriya for liver and digestion activation
Lifestyle Additions:
- Morning routine: Warm lemon water + yoga
- Evening routine: 10-minute mindfulness meditation to reduce cortisol levels
Progress & Monitoring:
After 3 Months:
- Symptoms: Bloating and fatigue were significantly reduced
- Weight Loss: 4 kg reduction due to diet and yoga
- LFT Report:
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ALT: Reduced from 68 U/L to 32 U/L (normal range: 7-56)
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AST: Reduced from 54 U/L to 30 U/L
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Ultrasound: Fatty infiltration was visibly reduced
After 6 Months:
- Complete symptom resolution
- Repeat Ultrasound: Liver returned to near-normal echotexture
- Medications: Gradually tapered off under medical supervision
Conclusion:
After six months of consistent medical treatment and dedicated yoga practice, Rajiv’s liver function normalized, and imaging showed a significant reversal of fatty changes. He continues to practice yoga daily and has adopted a healthy lifestyle with stress management techniques.
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