Ultra-Processed Food Consumption and Metabolic-Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD): A Longitudinal and Sustainable Analysis

Abstract

[eng] Background: The rising prevalence of metabolic-dysfunction-associated steatoticliver disease (MASLD) is a significant health challenge, and the consumption of ultraprocessedfoods (UPFs) could play a key role. Aim: The aim is assess the impact of UPFconsumption changes on the development and progression of MASLD in adults. Design:This is a longitudinal study to assess how changes in UPF consumption affect liver fat andMASLD parameters over 6 months in 70 participants. Methods: Dietary intake was assessedusing a validated food frequency questionnaire, and foods were classified accordingto the NOVA system. Participants were divided into three groups based on UPF consumptionchanges: maximum (T1), medium (T2), and minimum reduction (T3). Fatty liverparameters were assessed with magnetic resonance imaging and ultrasonography. Mediterraneandiet (Med-diet) adherence and sociodemographic parameters were also recorded.The General Linear Model was used to determine relationships between UPF consumption,fatty liver disease parameters, and diet. Results: Participants in T1 experienceda 7.7% reduction in intrahepatic fat content (IFC) compared to 2.6% in T3. T1 showed increasedMed-diet adherence and decreased meat and sweets consumption. The energyintake decreased by 605.3 kcal/day in T1, while T3 showed an increase of 209.5 kcal/day.Conclusions: Reducing UPF consumption leads to a decrease in IFC, associated with highMed-diet adherence and low calorie intake. Adopting these dietary patterns aligns withglobal sustainability goals and could further benefit MASLD patients by addressing environmentalchallenges alongside improving liver health.