Polyphenol intakes and risk of impaired lipid profile, elevated hepatic enzymes and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

Purpose Polyphenols are plant-derived bioactive compounds with some known hepato-protective effects. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the association between polyphenol consumption and risk of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and its related conditions such as impaired lipid profile and elevated hepatic enzymes. Design/methodology/approach A total of 196 NAFLD patients and 803 controls were enrolled in this case-control study. Biochemical and anthropometric measurements as well as polyphenol consumption during the previous year were assessed. Findings In unadjusted model, participants who consumed the third and fourth quartiles of polyphenols intake were less likely to have NAFLD in comparison to those who consumed the first quartile [odds ratio, OR: 0.48; 95 per cent confidence interval, CI: (0.30-0.77) and OR: 0.62; 95 per cent CI: (0.40-0.96), respectively]. In separate analysis of genders, this effect was seen only in male participants [OR: 0.29; 95 per cent CI: (0.14-0.58) and OR: 0.21; 95 per cent CI (0.10-0.42), respectively], and the association remained significant after adjustment for energy, body mass index, age and smoking. Originality/value Higher total polyphenol intake is associated with a decreased risk of NAFLD. Prospective studies are needed to confirm these results.