Diet and metabolism linked to fatty liver disease risk

Medical experts and recent research highlight that physical activity and a healthy weight do not entirely eliminate the risk of fatty liver disease, now referred to as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease. Gastroenterologist Natália Trevizoli warns that individuals with a normal Body Mass Index (BMI) can still suffer from visceral fat accumulation, insulin resistance, or abnormal cholesterol levels that lead to liver fat buildup.

A study published in Nutrition Reviews by researchers from Southeast University and Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology examined how dietary patterns impact liver health. The research evaluated the Harvard Alternative Healthy Eating Index and the US government's Healthy Eating Index.

Protective dietary patterns include high consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, legumes, nuts, and healthy fats like olive oil. Conversely, diets high in refined grains, added sugars, and excess sodium are linked to increased liver risks. The study emphasizes that the cumulative effect of long-term dietary patterns is more significant than the consumption of isolated foods.