Intake of Nutrients, Fiber, and Sugar in Patients with Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Comparison to Healthy Individuals

Abstract

Background: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common cause of chronic liver
disease in the world. Although some studies have been conducted about dietary intakes of these
patients, but the results are inconsistent. The aim of this study was to survey all macronutrients
and micronutrients included in dietary intake of these patients for better understanding the factors
influencing this disease.
Methods: The present study is a case‑control conducted in Isfahan city, Iran. The cases were
recently diagnosed patients with NAFLD who identified by ultrasonography. The case (159) and
control (158) individuals were matched in age and gender. Data of general characteristics and
physical activity of individuals were collected through questionnaire. Dietary intake was also
collected using 24 h dietary recall questionnaire.
Results: Waistline and body mass index for the case group were more than the control
group (P < 0.05). Physical activity level in healthy individuals was more than patients with NAFLD.
Dietary intake of saturated fatty acids and sugar in patients with NAFLD was more than healthy
individuals (P < 0.05). Intake of total dietary fiber, folic acid, Vitamin D, zinc, and potassium in
healthy individuals was more than patients with NAFLD (P < 0.05).
Conclusions: In total, it seems the type of dietary intake source is associated with NAFLD.
Increasing saturated fatty acids and sugar and decreasing fiber, folic acid, Vitamin D, zinc, and
potassium intake might play a role in the progression of this disease.
Keywords: Dietary intake, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, physical activity