ABSTRACT
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common cause of liver disease worldwide. Besides the strong correlation for liver-related morbidity and mortality, NAFLD is also associated with an increased risk for cardiovascular disease and solid neoplasms. The mechanisms in NAFLD development and progression are complex, since many factors contribute to fat deposition within the liver. Excessive consumption of calories leading to obesity and its related comorbidities is a leading risk factor for NAFLD. Diets high in fructose, saturated fats, and cholesterol, and lower in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and fiber, are associated with the development of NAFLD. These are often linked to lifestyle risk factors, such as excessive caloric intake and reduced physical activity. Dietary patterns as a whole, rather than individual constituents of food, may have a significant influence on NAFLD development, since dietary patterns also take into account interactions between various nutrients.
