AGA Clinical Practice Update on Lifestyle Modification Using Diet and Exercise to Achieve Weight Loss in the Management of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: Expert Review

Abstract

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a leading cause of chronic liver disease, with global public health impact affecting more than 25% of the global population. NAFLD is associated with significant morbidity and mortality from cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, solid organ malignancies, diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, and obstructive sleep apnea, resulting in significant health care resource use and decreased health-related quality of life. NAFLD cirrhosis is a leading indication for liver transplantation in the United States. Lifestyle modification to achieve weight loss remains a first-line intervention in patients with NAFLD. We summarize evidence-based interventions for lifestyle modification in the treatment of NAFLD and provided best practice advice statements to address key issues in clinical management.

Keywords: Cirrhosis; Diet; Exercise; Fatty Liver; Liver Fibrosis; NASH; Obesity; Steatohepatitis; Weight Loss.