Association between Index of Nutritional Quality and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: The Role of vitamin D and B Group

Abstract Background Numerous studies have revealed that diet has been considered as an important pathogenic factor for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The Index of Nutritional Quality (INQ) is a method of quantitative and qualitative evaluation of single foods and diets, which has special significance in recognizing clinical nutritional problems. Methods This study included 295 patients with NAFLD and 704 controls. The dietary intake was assessed through a valid and reliable food frequency questionnaire. INQ was calculated from the questionnaire data and was compared between the 2 groups. Results The controls had higher INQ of vitamin D, vitamin E, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B12; biotin, pantothenic acid, magnesium, and zinc compared to the patients with NAFLD. After controlling for several covariates, positive associations were observed between NAFLD risk and INQs of riboflavin (OR riboflavin  = 0.49, 95% CI: 0.28-0.78, OR biotin  = 0.35, 95% CI: 0.18-0.76, OR pantothenic  = 0.28, 95% CI: 0.12-0.64, OR magnesium  = 0.28, 95% CI: 0.11-0.75, OR zinc  = 0.15 95% CI: 0.05-0.42). Conclusions Findings of the present study suggest that subjects who follow a more healthy and nutrient-rich diet, especially in terms of vitamins D, B1, B2, B12, B3, and zinc, are at a lower risk of NAFLD compared to those who consume unhealthy and nutrient-poor diet.