Different Dietary Approaches, Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Cardiovascular Disease: A Literature Review

Nutrients. 2023 Mar 20;15(6):1483. doi: 10.3390/nu15061483.

Abstract

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the first cause of chronic liver disease and is also associated with other harmful entities such as obesity, metabolic syndrome, dyslipidemia, and diabetes. NAFLD is a significant public health concern worldwide, impacting individuals of all ages, and its prevalence is projected to increase in the near future due to its connection with obesity. Intrinsic (genetics) and external (lifestyle) factors may also modulate NAFLD, and, in turn, may partly explain the observed relationship between NAFLD and cardiovascular disease (CVD). Although many drugs are been tested to treat NAFLD, to date, no drug has indication to specifically treat this disorder. Thus, the current management of NAFLD relies on lifestyle modifications and specifically on weight loss, physical activity, and the intake of a healthy diet. In the present narrative review, we will discuss the effects of certain dietary patterns on NAFLD incidence and progression.

Keywords: DASH diet; Mediterranean diet; cardiovascular disease; intermittent fasting; ketogenic diet; low-carbohydrate diet; low-fat diet; non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cardiovascular Diseases* / epidemiology
  • Diet
  • Diet, Healthy*
  • Incidence
  • Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease* / epidemiology
  • Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease* / therapy
  • Obesity / complications

Grants and funding

This research received no external funding.