Lifestyle of patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: assessment of dietary habits and physical activity

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OBJECTIVE

This study aims to evaluate the quality of life, dietary habits, and physical activity among individuals with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and identify common patterns to enhance the management of patients with this condition.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Online surveys were conducted with 120 NAFLD patients, with an average age of 46 (41—57) years. Data on nutrition, eating behavior, alcohol consumption, quality of life, and physical activity were collected and analyzed.

RESULTS

The most pronounced syndrome in NAFLD patients was dyspeptic syndrome, with a mean severity of 10.58±5.21 points. According to the SF-36 quality of life questionnaire, NAFLD patients scored higher on the Psychological Component of Health scale (median: 38.3, mean: 40.16±11.85) compared to the Physical Component of Health scale (median: 39.94, mean: 40.07±8.4). Physical activity varied, with 47% demonstrating moderate, 26% high, and 21% very high activity. NAFLD patients exhibited externalizing eating behavior (52%), and to a lesser extent, restrictive (36%) and emotive (12%) types. Most respondents consumed fresh fruits and vegetables only once a week, reporting daily overeating despite understanding nutritional principles and necessary dietary therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

NAFLD patients exhibit dyspeptic syndrome, externalizing eating behavior, and sufficient but irregular physical activity. Daily overeating, inadequate fruit and vegetable intake, and high saturated fat consumption are associated with increased weight and waist size. NAFLD does not adversely affect mental well-being but restricts physical functioning.

Keywords:

non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

physical activity

quality of life

feeding behavior

lifestyle

Authors:

T.S. Krolevets

Omsk State Medical University

ORCID: 0000-0002-7452-7230

M.I. Syrovenko

Omsk State Medical University

ORCID: 0000-0001-6300-367X

M.A. Livzan

Omsk State Medical University

ORCID: 0000-0002-6581-7017

Received:

07.06.2023

Accepted:

08.11.2023

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