Mediterranean diet with high fibre and coffee Effective for Managing NAFLD

Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) is a widespread health concern, characterized by excessive fat buildup in the liver, without the involvement of alcohol. With no specific medications available for its treatment, the focus has turned to dietary interventions. A recent scoping review published in the Nutrients Journal found promising dietary patterns, foods, and nutrients that can potentially ameliorate NAFLD.

Researchers conducted an extensive literature search encompassing MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar to compile a comprehensive overview of dietary patterns, foods, and nutrients that could offer relief to individuals suffering from NAFLD.

One prominent finding from this review is the prominence of the hypocaloric Mediterranean diet as a favored dietary pattern for combating NAFLD. This approach emphasizes the consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats, offering potential benefits for liver health.

Interestingly, the review highlights coffee consumption (without added sugars) as a potentially protective factor against NAFLD. This revelation aligns with previous research suggesting that coffee's bioactive compounds may help reduce liver fat accumulation.

Another critical aspect addressed in the review is the role of gut microbiota in NAFLD. Adequate fiber intake is emphasized as a means to support a healthy gut microbiome, potentially benefiting individuals with this condition.

The scoping review underscores the potential of a high-quality diet in ameliorating liver steatosis, a hallmark of NAFLD. Weight management through a hypocaloric diet, complemented by regular physical activity, is proposed as an effective strategy for managing NAFLD.

Additionally, the review points out the importance of limiting sugar intake, given its association with metabolic disturbances and liver fat accumulation.

Overall, the scoping review provides valuable insights into dietary strategies for NAFLD management. While a hypocaloric Mediterranean diet, coffee consumption, and fiber intake emerge as promising approaches, it's essential to recognize that individual dietary needs may vary. Consulting with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian to tailor dietary recommendations is advisable for those dealing with NAFLD.

Source:

Montemayor, S., García, S., Monserrat-Mesquida, M., Tur, J. A., & Bouzas, C. (2023). Dietary Patterns, Foods, and Nutrients to Ameliorate Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Scoping Review. In Nutrients (Vol. 15, Issue 18, p. 3987). MDPI AG. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15183987