Nutritional and Dietary Interventions for Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

Abstract

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become an epidemic disease affecting both adults and children worldwide due to rising obesity. Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, the severe form of the NAFLD characterized by cellular injury, inflammation, and fibrosis, can lead to cirrhosis, liver failure, and hepatocellular carcinoma for which the only available treatment is liver transplant. Besides liver-related morbidity and mortality, NAFLD is also a risk factor for cardiovascular disease and malignancy. Although the molecular mechanisms underlying NAFLD still await to be further defined, insulin resistance plays a crucial role. Unfortunately, there is currently no effective pharmacologic therapy for NAFLD, and the only effective intervention is to lose weight by lifestyle modification. In this chapter, we discuss the current dietary recommendation for NAFLD patients, with an emphasis on the judicial selection of healthy diet and the rationales behind it. Updates on pathogenesis and medical and surgical intervention for NAFLD are also discussed.