Non-alcohol fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which is now recognized as a fatty liver disease (MAFLD) associated with metabolic dysfunction, is rapidly emerging as a major health concern in India. Experts have warned that the country is facing a silent epidemic, with lifestyle factors to contribute significantly to its rise. In response, the Asian Pacific Association for the Study of the Lever (APASL) has issued new guidelines to effectively manage and treat the situation.

Diet and Exercise: Key of MAFLD Management

According to apasl guidelines, diet and exercise play an important role in the management of Mafld. Recommendations published in Hepatology International Journal, suggests that people with Mafld should also lose 5–10 percent of their body weight. Experts suggest frequent self-wagging (at least once a week), adopting a low-calorie diet, and increasing physical activity for long-term weight management.

Guidelines reflect the benefits of combining diet with structured exercise. Regular physical activity improves insulin sensitivity, reduces inflammation, and modifies metabolism in liver, muscles, and fat tissues, which helps the liver to regulate free fatty acid flow.

Diet recommended for MafLD patients

APASL guidelines recommend to effective mafLD management, daily calorie intake of 1,200 to 1,800 kiloclies or to reduce 500-700 kiloclies per day. The Mediterranean diet is seen as the most evidence-based nutritional approach to address fatty liver disease.

This diet includes:

Monoonsaturated fats and high intake of omega -3 fatty acids

Sophisticated carbohydrates and sugars consumption low

Seafood

Although intermittent fasting has gained popularity for weight loss and metabolic benefits, study authors have taken care that evidence about its effectiveness in reversing fatty liver disease is limited. Interestingly, guidelines suggest that consumption of at least three cups of coffee daily can lead to liver-protective benefits.

Exercise guidelines for mafld patients

To improve liver health and overall metabolism, guidelines recommend engaging in aerobic exercise 150–240 minutes per week. Even minimum 135 minutes of weekly can provide adequate benefits. The suggested aerobic exercises include:

Walk

run

cycling

float

jumping rope

Symptoms of mafled

Mafld often moves silently, many people are unaware of the situation until complications occur. However, general symptoms may include:

Fatigue and weakness

Unexplained weight loss

Anchoria

Stomach inflammation

Skin or eyes yellow (jaundice in severe cases)

Preventive measures

Since Mafld is associated with lifestyle factors, preventive strategies are necessary:

Maintain a healthy weight: Avoid obesity and attach to regular physical activity.

Follow a balanced diet: prefer whole foods, lean proteins, healthy fats and fiber.

Limit sugar and sophisticated carbohydrates: reduce the consumption of sugar beverages, white bread and processed foods.

Exercise regularly: Include at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week.

Monitor Liver Health: Regular check-up and liver function tests can help detect early signs of fatty liver disease.

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