Abstract
In the present study, we aimed to investigate the longitudinal aspects of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and clarify the factors for the regression of fatty liver. We investigated changes of anthropometric parameters, blood tests and nutrient intake in subjects with regression of NAFLD in medical check-up both in 2007 and 2012. Fatty liver was diagnosed by ultrasonography. Intake of nutrients and food groups was assessed with a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Of the 118 subjects with NAFLD in 2007, 33 (28%) showed fatty liver regression in 2012. Body weight, body mass index (BMI) and waist circumferences were decreased significantly in subjects with fatty liver regression in 2012, compared with those parameters in 2007. Serum levels of total cholesterol, ALT and choline esterase were decreased significantly in subjects with fatty liver regression in 2012, compared with those blood tests in 2007. For nutrients, average total calorie intake decreased from 33.8±8.5 kcal/IBW kg/day in 2007 to 29.1±7.0 kcal/IBW kg/day in 2012 in subjects with fatty liver regression. Dietary intake of carbohydrates, especially, cereals and potatoes, was decreased significantly. There were no significant changes of anthropometric parameters, blood tests and nutrient intake in subjects with fatty liver in 2012. Weight reduction achieved through reduced calorie diets with lower carbohydrate intake may result in regression of liver fat deposition in subjects with NAFLD.
