In a recent review published in nutrients In the journal, researchers reviewed existing data on dietary patterns, foods, and nutrients to improve nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
study: Dietary patterns, foods, and nutrients to improve non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: a scoping review. Image credit: sweet marshmallow/Shutterstock.com
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Despite NAFLD being the most frequent cause of chronic liver disease worldwide, there is a lack of drug and dietary recommendations to address its serious health consequences.
NASH worsens liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, leading to increased medical costs, economic losses, and decreased quality of life.
Dietary adjustments, lifestyle changes, and lifestyle modifications are examples of treatment options. Metabolic syndrome, obesity, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, diabetes, and chronic kidney disease are all associated with NAFLD.
About reviews
In this review, researchers discussed various dietary strategies to manage nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). From January to July 2023, he conducted searches in databases such as MEDLINE, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and Scopus to find relevant records published in English or Spanish.
The Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) is a primarily plant-based eating pattern that is high in monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) and low in red meat consumption. Studies have shown that people who eat a high-fat Western diet are more likely to develop NAFLD.
MedDiet distinguishes itself from other diets by focusing on low carbohydrate intake, avoidance of refined carbohydrates, and using olive oil as the main source of added fat, while minimizing sugar intake. Masu. Studies have shown that MedDiet is associated with a reduced risk of his NAFLD, reduced weight gain, insulin resistance, and the development of NAFLD.
The low carbohydrate content and emphasis on plant-based foods make the MedDiet a viable alternative to the Western diet.
Saturated fats commonly found in Western diets can interfere with phospholipid metabolism, leading to mitochondrial dysfunction, increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and cell apoptosis. Additionally, high intake of animal protein has been associated with NAFLD in obese individuals.
Additionally, diet plays a direct role in de novo lipogenesis, a process by which liver cells convert excess carbohydrates, especially fructose, into fatty acids. Regular fructose intake is associated with an increased risk of fibrosis, primarily due to the use of industrial fructose.
Finally, diets high in fructose, such as sucrose, fructose, and high fructose corn syrup, are associated with an increased risk of developing steatosis and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), especially in overweight and obese people. I am.
Genetics, Food, and NAFLD Improvement
Diet plays an important role in the development of NAFLD as it can influence DNA homeostasis and telomere biology. Proper production and repair of DNA depends on the presence of essential nutrients such as folate, calcium, retinol, vitamin E, and nicotinic acid. Conversely, trans fats can cause DNA damage.
NAFLD is associated with a significant phenomenon of telomere shortening, which can be alleviated by incorporating fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and vegetables into the diet. Conversely, high glycemic index carbohydrates, processed meats, and saturated fats tend to promote telomere shortening.
PNPLA3 (patatin-like phospholipase domain-containing 3) plays an important role in controlling fat accumulation in the liver and the development of NAFLD. A diet rich in carbohydrates and fatty acids can trigger the production of the specific protein encoded by this mutant gene. As a result, diet can alter the way lipids are utilized by the liver through epigenetic changes, impacting insulin resistance, influencing oxidative stress, and influencing mitochondrial function.
Deficiencies in nutrients such as betaine, choline, folic acid, and vitamin B12 can increase DNA methylation, which can result in increased triglyceride production in the liver. Therefore, incorporating foods such as nuts, seeds, seafood, and a high-fiber diet can significantly reduce your risk of developing NAFLD. Nuts have been shown to have positive effects on lipid profile, liver health, and inflammation and may serve as an effective treatment for NAFLD.
Fish can produce omega-3 fatty acids, which reduce fat accumulation in the liver and help prevent the development of NAFLD, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), and fibrosis.
High-fiber diets and whole grains can influence the composition of the gut microbiota, which may influence the communication between the gut and liver in the development of NAFLD. A diet rich in legumes, such as peas, lentils, and beans, is strongly associated with a lower risk of NAFLD.
The exact mechanisms behind the protective effects of vegetables and fruits on NAFLD risk are not fully understood, but may be due to the lower energy density after addition to the diet and the polyphenols and carotenoids contained in these foods. It is thought to be related to its antioxidant properties. .
Dairy products, especially those containing yogurt Lactobacillus acidophilus La5 and Bifidobacterium lactis Bb12 has been associated with a lower risk of NAFLD due to its high whey protein content, which aids in weight loss and fat mass reduction.
Probiotics such as bifidobacteria and lactic acid bacteria have been demonstrated to reduce hepatic oxidative and inflammatory damage while reducing hepatic triglycerides (TG) and steatosis.
Prebiotics, typified by unsweetened filter coffee, can influence the composition of the gut microbiota and are involved in the development of NAFLD. Choline is an essential B vitamin obtained from dietary intake, produced endogenously, and primarily digested and stored in the liver.
Micronutrients associated with NAFLD include zinc, copper, iron, selenium, magnesium, vitamins A, C, D, E, and carotenoids. These micronutrients are known to have antioxidant, antifibrotic, immunomodulatory, and lipoprotective effects, which have been reported as mechanisms of action to reduce NAFLD.
conclusion
Based on the results of this study, a MedDiet focused on reducing oxidative stress and inflammation may help control NAFLD.
A high-quality diet, frequent exercise, and limiting sugar intake are important strategies, and adequate fiber and coffee intake can help prevent undesirable gut bacteria associated with the development of NAFLD.