Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

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      The prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is on the rise. There are two different types of NAFLD; hepatic steatosis and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Hepatic steatosis is caused by an accumulation of triglycerides in the liver cell that cause inflammation. This type is not as serious and often times people do not experience symptoms. NASH is a more serious condition that can lead to fibrosis and cirrhosis, which could eventually lead to liver failure. Research has shown that NAFLD prevalence is directly associated with obesity. While some experts believe that an increase in body fat is what leads to NAFLD, other experts claim that it is also insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, diabetes, and hypertension. Experts believe that hyperinsulinemia causes a rise in triglycerides and blocks lipolysis. This results in excess fats, with nowhere to put them.

Treatment and Prevention

      Maintaining a healthy weight is the first major step in preventing NAFLD. Weight management can be achieved through improved diet and exercise. Research has shown that a 10% weight loss can decrease liver size and improve insulin resistance. 
      It is recommended that patients intending on losing weight to improve NAFLD, consume a diet low in saturated fat and total fat but higher in fiber and polyunsaturated fat. There is some concern regarding rapid weight loss. Some experts believe that losing weight too quickly could result in a fatty liver because of excess fat production from the liver trying to make up for lack of fat in the diet. More research is needed in this area. 
      Current research shows that the best way to prevent and treat NAFLD is a healthy diet and regular exercise. These lifestyle factors in combination can help prevent some of the diseases linked with NAFLD such as type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, hypertension, dyslipidemia, impaired fasting blood glucose, and metabolic syndrome. 

It is extremely important for dietitians to be knowledgable about NAFLD, especially in the clinical setting. This disease is highly associated with diet and lifestyle, which dietitians are trained on. We can help improve type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, hypertension, blood glucose levels, metabolic syndrome, and obesity. Because of this, dietitians would play a key role in treating patients at risk or suffering from NAFLD. 

http://www.todaysdietitian.com/newarchives/121409p28.shtml

SR

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