How does exercise training improve metabolic markers for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease?
Exercise training helps improve metabolic markers for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease by reducing liver fat, lowering blood sugar and insulin levels, and improving mitochondrial function. A meta-analysis of 38 studies found that exercise training was effective for reducing intrahepatic lipids and improving glucose homeostasis in adults with and without the condition 4.
What the research says
Research shows that exercise training reduces fasting blood glucose and fasting insulin levels in people with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease 4. The analysis of 38 studies included 1880 participants and confirmed that exercise training was more effective for reducing liver fat compared to nonexercise groups 4. High-intensity interval training was likely the most effective type of exercise for lowering liver fat, followed by aerobic training and combined aerobic and resistance training 4.
Exercise also improves mitochondrial quality, which is often damaged during the progression of the disease 6. In a study using zebrafish, swimming exercise activated mitochondrial biogenesis and improved the expression of genes related to fatty acid oxidation 6. This process helps the liver burn fat more efficiently and reduces inflammation and fibrosis markers 6.
While other treatments like specific fatty acid supplements can also help reduce liver fat and inflammation 7, exercise remains a mainstay of treatment alongside diet 5. The combination of caloric restriction and lifestyle changes like exercise is often more effective than either approach alone 7.
What to ask your doctor
- Which type of exercise, such as high-intensity interval training or aerobic training, is best for my specific condition?
- How much exercise should I do each week to see improvements in my liver fat and blood sugar?
- Can I combine exercise with dietary changes to get the best results for my nonalcoholic fatty liver disease?
- What are the signs that my exercise routine is helping to reduce liver inflammation?
- Is there a specific type of exercise I should avoid if I have advanced liver disease or other health conditions?
This question is drawn from common patient questions about Gastroenterology and answered using cited medical research. We do not provide individualized advice.