The Role of Omega-3 Fatty Acids on the Prevention and Treatment of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Review of Published Papers



Zolfaghari H¹ ; Jafarian K¹ ; Iraj B² ; Askari G³ Show Affiliations
Source: Journal of Isfahan Medical School Published:2014

Abstract

Background: 10 to 35% of the adult population all round the world is infected with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. So far no cure is recommended for this disease. Omega 3 fatty acids have beneficial effects in the treatment of hyperlipidemia and cardiovascular disease, the resort is recently used for the treatment of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. The aim of this study was to review studies about the role of omega-3 fatty acids on the prevention and treatment of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Methods: First, PubMed and ISI databases were studied for the papers in their text there were the words, NAFLD, NASH, nonalcoholic fatty liver, steatosis, DHA, EPA, fish oil and omega 3, they were searched. Then the papers were divided into tree groups: animal studies, cross-sectional studies and case - control studies and clinical trials. Totaly of 21 articles were evaluated. Findings: The results of cross-sectional and case-control studies were not similar, but more robust studies showed that inadequate intakes of dietary sources of omega-3 is associated with fatty liver disease. Most interventions have been conducted in animal and human studies, have been reported positive effects of omega-3 supplementation in reducing triglycerides and fatty liver in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver. Conclusion: According to the available evidence it seems reduction of omega-3 food sources due to poor eating habits can be one of the reasons of multi-factorial fatty liver disease. Also,the use of its supplement along with modification of the diet pattern and lifestyle is beneficial for these patients.