Exploring the relationship between nutritional status, body composition and health-related quality of life in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

Purpose This study aims to examine the association between nutritional status, body composition, dietary patterns and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) patients and controls. NAFLD increases with age and often presents asymptomatically, with factors such as poor diet, sedentary lifestyle and non-communicable diseases contributing to its development. NAFLD patients experience psychological issues, such as depression and anxiety, which impact HRQoL. Design/methodology/approach This study included 60 NAFLD patients aged 25–55 years in the experimental group and 30 healthy people as controls. Assessments included anthropometric measurements, biochemical, dietary intake, body composition and HRQoL. Findings NAFLD patients had significantly higher weight, BMI, visceral fat, body fat percentage and body age than controls (p < 0.001). They showed significantly higher intakes of energy (1991 vs 1,498 kcal, p < 0.001), protein (61 vs 47 g, p < 0.01), total fat (93 vs 63 g, p < 0.001) and saturated fats (11 vs 6 g, p < 0.001). The intakes of Polyunsaturated fatty acid and Monounsaturated fatty acid were lower (p < 0.001) as compared to controls. HRQoL scores were significantly lower for NAFLD patients, particularly in physical and social functioning, with 28% in the “Below Average” HRQoL category. Positive correlations were found b/w BMI and systolic blood pressure (r = 0.472) as well as diastolic blood pressure (r = 0.550), while negative associations were observed in body fat percentage and physical functioning (r = −0.405), showing the negative impact of excess adiposity on HRQoL. Originality/value The study identified correlates for NAFLD and highlights the significance of dietary practices in managing NAFLD and QOL.