The impact of health status, diet and lifestyle on non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease: Narrative review

Abstract

Summary Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is defined as the abnormal accumulation of triglycerides in the liver. NAFLD has a global prevalence of almost 30%, while incidence is rising with increasing levels of obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and metabolic syndrome. Nutrition plays a significant role in both the prevention and treatment of NAFLD. Therefore, the aim of this literature review is to explore the associations between dietary, lifestyle and other risk factors and the risk for developing NAFLD. Dietary patterns, lifestyle behaviours, comorbidities, or a combination of any may contribute to either the progression or prevention of NAFLD. Having diabetes, hypertension, or having obesity might increase the progression of NAFLD if not well treated and controlled. Diet influences the progression of NAFLD; following a western diet or simply a high‐fat diet may contribute to the worsening of NAFLD and further progression to non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and cirrhosis in later stages. On the other hand, the Mediterranean diet is the gold standard for both the treatment and prevention of NAFLD. Social behaviours, such as smoking, caffeine consumption and physical activity also play a role in the pathophysiology of NAFLD. Nutrition contributes significantly to the prevention or treatment of NAFLD, since this disease can be managed by diet and physical activity. However, further studies are still needed for a better understanding of the mechanisms of action. Randomized control trials are also needed to confirm findings in observational studies.

MCD Diet Rat Model Induces Alterations in Zinc and Iron during NAFLD Progression from Steatosis to Steatohepatitis

“…Diet influences the progression of NAFLD; following a western diet or simply a high-fat diet may contribute to the worsening of NAFLD and further progression to NASH and cirrhosis in later stages. A systematic review found that saturated fatty acids, trans-fats, animal proteins and simple sugars have a harmful effect on the liver [ 58 ]. Dietary changes can slow these events and prevent lasting liver damage.…”

Emerging Perspectives on the Set of Conditions That Lead to the Emergence of Metabolic Syndrome

“…Some macronutrients that are detrimental for the liver comprise saturated fatty acids (SFA), trans fats, carbohydrates that are simple, and animal proteins. Consuming monounsaturated fats (MUFAs), fatty acids that are polyunsaturated (PUFAs), and omega-3 fatty acids, proteins derived from plants, and dietary fiber is considered to help the liver [67]. As is this review, in contrast to the control group, which followed a World Health Organization-recommended healthy diet, the low-glycemic Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) was typically not energy restricted by the WHO.…”

Thwarting Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Fatty Liver Disease (MAFLD) with Common Bean: Dose- and Sex-Dependent Protection against Hepatic Steatosis

“…Today, the overall prevalence of MAFLD worldwide is 32.4% (with a 95% confidence interval of [29.9%, 34.9%]) [ 12 ]. Around 70–90% of overweight or obese individuals as well as people with type II diabetes also suffer from MAFLD and exhibit dyslipidemia, lipotoxicity, insulin resistance, and hypertension as features of MAFLD [ 8 , 13 ]. Therefore, to tackle such a complex systemic challenge such as MAFLD, there is an urgent need for effective preventative strategies, such as adopting food patterns to improve whole-body health status.…”