The Role of Choline, Soy Isoflavones, and Probiotics as Adjuvant Treatments in the Prevention and Management of NAFLD in Postmenopausal Women

Nutrients. 2023 Jun 8;15(12):2670. doi: 10.3390/nu15122670.

Abstract

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a prevalent condition among postmenopausal women that can lead to severe liver dysfunction and increased mortality. In recent years, research has focused on identifying potential lifestyle dietary interventions that may prevent or treat NAFLD in this population. Due to the complex and multifactorial nature of NAFLD in postmenopausal women, the disease can present as different subtypes, with varying levels of clinical presentation and variable treatment responses. By recognizing the significant heterogeneity of NAFLD in postmenopausal women, it may be possible to identify specific subsets of individuals who may benefit from targeted nutritional interventions. The purpose of this review was to examine the current evidence supporting the role of three specific nutritional factors-choline, soy isoflavones, and probiotics-as potential nutritional adjuvants in the prevention and treatment of NAFLD in postmenopausal women. There is promising evidence supporting the potential benefits of these nutritional factors for NAFLD prevention and treatment, particularly in postmenopausal women, and further research is warranted to confirm their effectiveness in alleviating hepatic steatosis in this population.

Keywords: choline; estrogen; heterogeneity; menopause; nonalcoholic fatty liver disease; nutrition; probiotics; soy isoflavones; women.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Choline / therapeutic use
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Isoflavones* / therapeutic use
  • Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease* / epidemiology
  • Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease* / prevention & control
  • Postmenopause
  • Probiotics* / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Choline
  • Isoflavones