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Lifestyle Interventions in MASLD: Molecular and Clinical Perspectives

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Guest Editor
Fresno Clinical Research Center, Fresno, CA 93720, USA
Interests: gastroenterology; hepatology; nutrition
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Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The increasing prevalence of Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD) has emerged as a significant public health concern. With lifestyles becoming more sedentary and diets increasingly featuring processed foods, the global incidence of MASLD is rising. Despite this worrying trend, there remains a substantial gap in understanding the role of natural bioactives in preventing and managing this condition, making this Special Issue particularly timely and crucial.

This Special Issue aims to explore the diverse role of natural bioactives in combating MASLD from a nutritional standpoint. We will highlight cutting-edge research that examines the biochemical pathways activated by these compounds. Furthermore, we will discuss the implications of various bioactive compounds in dietary practices and their potential to alleviate the effects of metabolic syndromes related to liver disease. The issue will also delve into the pathophysiology of MASLD, the connection between dietary habits and genetic factors, such as the PNPLA3 polymorphism, and the gut microbiome's influence on nutritional components.

This Special Issue will address vital existing gaps in the research concerning the role of natural bioactives in managing and preventing MASLD. By compiling high-quality research articles, reviews, and perspectives, we aim to create a comprehensive resource that informs practitioners and researchers while contributing to developing healthier dietary strategies for affected populations. We invite esteemed contributors to share their insights and help expand our understanding of this critical intersection between nutrition and liver health.

Dr. Muhammad Y. Sheikh
Guest Editor

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Keywords

  • NAFLD (nonalcoholic fatty liver disease)
  • MASLD (metabolic syndrome-associated steatotic liver disease)
  • metabolic syndrome
  • dyslipidemia
  • diabetes mellitus 2
  • hypertension
  • natural bioactive

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Published Papers (1 paper)

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Review

59 pages, 4148 KB  
Review
Diet and Lifestyle Interventions in Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Fatty Liver Disease: A Comprehensive Review
by Muhammad Y. Sheikh, Muhammad F. Younus, Annie Shergill and Muhammad N. Hasan
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(19), 9625; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26199625 - 2 Oct 2025
Viewed by 1063
Abstract
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and its progressive form, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), have become the leading causes of chronic liver disease worldwide, with increasing rates of cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, and cardiovascular complications. Pathogenesis involves a complex interplay of dietary excess, sedentary [...] Read more.
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and its progressive form, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), have become the leading causes of chronic liver disease worldwide, with increasing rates of cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, and cardiovascular complications. Pathogenesis involves a complex interplay of dietary excess, sedentary lifestyle, insulin resistance, adipose tissue dysfunction, and alterations in the gut microbiome, which collectively lead to hepatocellular stress, inflammation, and fibrogenesis. Despite ongoing advances in pharmacotherapy, lifestyle intervention remains the cornerstone of management. Evidence shows that sustained weight loss of ≥5% reduces hepatic steatosis, ≥7% improves necroinflammation, and ≥10% stabilizes or reverses fibrosis. Dietary strategies, including Mediterranean-style patterns, high-protein approaches, and intermittent fasting, have been shown to be effective in improving insulin sensitivity and reducing intrahepatic triglycerides. Exercise interventions, focusing on both aerobic fitness and resistance training, enhance metabolic flexibility and combat sarcopenia, thereby improving hepatic and systemic outcomes. Equally important are behavioral support, digital health tools, and multidisciplinary approaches that enhance adherence and address barriers such as socioeconomic disparities, limited access, and patient engagement issues. Personalized nutrition plans, integrating physical activity, and ongoing support for behavioral change are essential for long-term disease management. This review synthesizes current evidence on the roles of macronutrients, micronutrients, dietary quality, physical activity, and adjunctive behavioral strategies in managing MASLD. By translating mechanistic insights into practical, evidence-based recommendations, we aim to provide clinicians, dietitians, and exercise professionals with effective frameworks to slow disease progression and improve outcomes across diverse patient populations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Lifestyle Interventions in MASLD: Molecular and Clinical Perspectives)
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