A new study has revealed promising results for managing metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) through the combination of time-restricted feeding (TRF) and the DASH diet. Conducted over 12 weeks, the randomized controlled trial examined 54 participants diagnosed with MAFLD, comparing those following the TRF and DASH diet with those on standard meal distributions. The findings indicate significant improvements across various health metrics, including obesity indices and liver enzyme levels, sparking hope for more effective dietary strategies against this increasingly prevalent condition.
MAFLD is a growing global concern, with prevalence rates between 6% and 35%. It is characterized by fat accumulation within liver cells without significant alcohol consumption, often leading to serious health complications like type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Given the rise of MAFLD, effective non-pharmacological interventions have become critically necessary, leading researchers to this unique study.
The methodology adopted by the research team involved assigning patients to two groups: one following TRF, which permits eating within an 8-hour window daily, and adhering to the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet, and the other adhering to conventional calorie-restrictive diets. The trial focused on examining changes in body mass index (BMI), abdominal circumference, and various liver health markers, including alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), as primary outcomes.
This study yielded notable results; participants on the TRF and DASH diet experienced reductions of approximately 1.56 kg (p = 0.03) in BMI, as well as decreased abdominal circumference (p = 0.005). Liver enzymes, particularly ALT and AST, saw reductions of 15.23 units (p = 0.039) and 7.52 units (p = 0.047) respectively, highlighting favorable outcomes for liver health compared to the control group. The authors noted, cTRF (16/8) combined with the DASH diet is superior to a low-calorie diet in promoting obesity indices, hepatic steatosis, and fibrosis.d
Time-restricted feeding aids metabolic processes by reducing overall caloric intake and enhancing fat utilization. The DASH diet complements this by being rich in nutrients yet low in sodium and unhealthy fats, promoting satiety and overall health. Participants receiving the combo intervention benefit from the appetite-stabilizing effects of the DASH diet, which may address potential compensatory eating behaviors following fasting hours.
The findings support the use of combined dietary approaches as effective interventions for MAFLD management. With both dietary strategies directed at improving metabolic health, this study adds to the growing body of evidence favoring non-drug interventions for managing chronic health conditions. The researchers, from the Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, emphasized the necessity for future long-term studies to confirm the sustained efficacy and safety of these dietary approaches.
Importantly, the results of this trial come amid rising cases of MAFLD worldwide. Health professionals advocate the need for integrated lifestyle modifications to combat this growing epidemic. With the success of the TRF and DASH diet combination, patients may obtain not only weight loss but also significant improvements in their overall liver health, promoting different metabolic parameters, and potentially reducing the need for interventions.
The authors concluded, cThis study opens up new avenues for treating MAFLD and meeting the increasing call for effective, accessible dietary strategies to manage this condition.d Further research is necessary to validate these findings and establish more rigorous guidelines for healthcare professionals. The combination of these two dietary approaches could become fundamental components of treatment for patients struggling with metabolic-associated fatty liver disease, supporting healthier lifestyles and improved well-being.