Nutrition and Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: Current Perspectives

Abstract

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis are diseases in their own right as well as modifiable risk factors for cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. With expanding knowledge on NAFLD pathogenesis, insights have been gleaned into molecular targets for pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic approaches. Lifestyle modifications constitute a cornerstone of NAFLD management. This article reviews roles of key dietary macronutrients and micronutrients in NAFLD pathogenesis and their effects on molecular targets shared with established or emerging pharmacotherapies. Based on current evidence, a recommendation for a dietary framework as part of the comprehensive management strategy for NAFLD is provided.

Keywords: Amino acids; Fatty acids; Fructose; Insulin resistance; NAFLD; NASH; Obesity; Protein.