Metabolic Syndrome and Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: Nutritional Approach for Prevention



Paknahad Z¹ ; Zeraeibidgoli H² Show Affiliations
Source: Journal of Isfahan Medical School Published:2013

Abstract

Background: Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of metabolic risk factors that come together in a single individual. These metabolic factors include insulin resistance, hypertension (high blood pressure), dyslipidemia, and an increased risk for clotting. Patients are most often overweight or obese. The development of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is strongly associated with the metabolic syndrome as reflected by the fact that most of the patients with NAFLD have more than one feature of metabolic syndrome. The aim of this review was to summarize the current knowledge on the epidemiology and pathophysiology of both NAFLD and metabolic syndrome and the findings about the effects nutrient content or specific food components (such as ω3 fatty acids). Methods: We searched Pubmed, ISI web of science, and EMBASE databases by using Metabolic syndrome', 'Nonalcoholic fatty liver, Metabolic syndrome & diet, Metabolic syndrome & nonalcoholic fatty liver, 'Nonalcoholic fatty liver & diet, Nonalcoholic fatty liver & nutrition, and Metabolic syndrome & nutrition from 2008 until 2013. Findings: The global increase in the prevalence of obesity is associated with NAFLD. NAFLD is also commonly associated with an increased risk of Type 2 diabetes mellitus development. Although there are no ideal options available for NAFLD treatment, dietary modification has a major role. Dietary patterns highly in fruit and vegetable content were generally found to be associated with lower prevalence of metabolic syndrome. High meat intake was associated with components of metabolic syndrome, especially impaired glucose tolerance. Intake of trans fatty acids from hydrogenated oils found to increase inflammatory markers. A low carbohydrate and saturated fat and high fiber and ω3 fatty acid diet is likely to be beneficial. The higher intake of soft drinks is associated with an increased risk of NAFLD. It is recommended to limit the intake of high-fructose foods and beverages in the NAFLD population. Findings showed negative correlation between coffee consumption and metabolic syndrome, because of the lower prevalence of hypertriglyceridemia, and data suggested coffee intake can reduce the risk of NAFLD. Conclusion: A gradual weight reduction and physical activity program is still the gold standard of NAFLD treatment. Regular consumption of fruit and vegetables is recommended to reduce the risk of developing metabolic syndrome.