Exercise Found Essential for Managing Chronic Liver Disease: Study

New Delhi: A recent study led by Indian-origin researcher Hirsh D. Trivedi highlights the pivotal role of exercise in managing metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), previously known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The research emphasizes exercise as a cornerstone therapy for this chronic liver condition, which is characterized by fat accumulation in the liver in individuals who consume minimal alcohol.

MASLD commonly affects people with underlying conditions such as diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol. The study, conducted by researchers at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in California, underscores the benefits of exercise even for patients who have advanced to cirrhosis, a severe form of liver scarring.

Published in the journal Liver International, the findings reveal that exercise offers multiple benefits beyond weight loss. It can reduce liver fat, improve biomarkers of inflammation, and enhance cardiovascular health. The researchers strongly advocate for personalized exercise regimens tailored to each patient's condition, including those undergoing pharmacotherapy.

"Exercise is a powerful therapeutic tool at all stages of liver disease, including advanced stages like cirrhosis. Patients should not limit physical activity solely based on their disease stage," stated Jonathan G. Stine, a member of the research team, in a post on the social media platform X.

The study reviewed various pre-clinical and clinical trials, concluding that increased physical activity, particularly structured exercise, significantly reduces the incidence and severity of liver disease. The research team also called for the adoption of an evidence-based, systematic approach to incorporating exercise into treatment plans for MASLD patients.

"Regular physical activity is essential for managing steatotic liver disease. It improves insulin sensitivity, reduces hepatic fat accumulation, and lowers biomarkers of liver inflammation," the researchers noted. They further emphasized the need for more research to refine exercise protocols and maximize their effectiveness for MASLD patients.

The study reinforces the idea that exercise should remain a key intervention for managing chronic liver diseases, ensuring better outcomes and improved quality of life for patients at all stages of the condition.