Relationship between lifestyle factors and nutritional status and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease among a group of adult Jordanians.

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the most common chronic liver diseases worldwide. NAFLD may progress from simple steatosis to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, cirrhosis and finally decompensated liver failure. This study aims at assessing the relationship between lifestyle factors and nutrients intake and the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in a group of Jordanian adults 30-60 years of age.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: In this case-control study, a total of 120 Jordanian adults 30-60 years of age were recruited. Sixty NAFLD patients and 60 control subjects were enrolled. The diagnosis of NAFLD was made based on the basis of ultrasonography. Weight, height and waist circumference (WC) were measured and body mass index (BMI) was calculated. Nutrients intake and physical activity level were assessed using validated questionnaires.

RESULTS: The results showed that patients with NAFLD had a higher significant difference in BMI, WC, and weight compared to controls (p = 0.001). Physical activity level was significantly higher in control subjects than in cases (p = 0.001). The metabolic parameters were significantly different both groups. The mean daily intakes of macronutrients were significantly higher in cases than in control subjects (p = 0.001). A significant difference was detected in the daily intake of some vitamins and minerals among cases compared to control subjects (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION: The present study supports the findings of the presence of a relationship between macro- and micronutrients intake and some anthropometric and biochemical variables and NAFLD.