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Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

Hepatic steatosis (>5% of hepatocytes) in the absence of significant alcohol intake; most common liver disease worldwide.

Also: NAFLD

Driven by insulin resistance, obesity, and dyslipidemia. Progresses through simple steatosis to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma in a subset. MNT centers on 7 to 10% weight loss, Mediterranean diet pattern, limiting fructose and added sugars, and treating comorbid T2DM. Coffee consumption and exercise are independently beneficial.

How one textbook covers it

  • Krause and Mahan's Food and the Nutrition Care Process, 16th ed. — Chapter 29

    Driven by insulin resistance, obesity, and dyslipidemia. Progresses through simple steatosis to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma in a subset. MNT centers on 7 to 10% weight loss, Mediterranean diet pattern, limiting fructose and added sugars, and treating comorbid T2DM. Coffee consumption and exercise are independently beneficial.

Related terms

Insulin Resistance, Mediterranean Diet, NASH