The Association of Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Physical Activity

Background: There is an increasing interest in physical activity as a preventive and/or therapeutic option of non alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The aim of this study was to examine the association between physical activity and ultrasound-diagnosed NAFLD. Methods: From April to June 2007, 198 clients logistic regression analysis was used to identify independent association. Results: The prevalence of NAFLD was significantly lower in the physical active group (more than 1500 MET-minutes per week) compared to the inactive group (9.6% vs 19.2%, P<0.05). This association was not attenuated when adjusted for age, BMI, HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, fasting glucose, and HOMA2-IR ( Odds Ratio 0.23 [95% CI 0.07 similar to 0.77, P<0.05]). Conclusion: Compared to the physically inactive group, the risk of NAFLD was lower in the physically active group. Our data suggests that regular and moderate physical exercise can prevent the development of fatty liver disease.