Comparative Efficacy of Exercise Modalities in NAFLD: Review

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The article titled “Comparative efficacy of different exercise modalities on metabolic profiles and liver functions in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: a network meta-analysis” is a systematic review and network meta-analysis published in Frontiers in Physiology on September 11, 2024. Here is a summary of its content:

Objective

The study aims to compare the efficacy of different exercise modalities (aerobic, resistance, HIIT, and mind-body exercises) on metabolic profiles and liver functions in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) using a network meta-analysis.

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Methods

The authors conducted a comprehensive search across five electronic databases (Web of Science, EMBASE, PubMed, SCOPUS, and CNKI) to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing the effects of various exercise modalities on NAFLD. The literature search was up to December 15, 2023. The selected studies underwent rigorous quality appraisal and risk of bias analysis using the Cochrane Handbook’s guidelines. The network meta-analysis was performed using Stata/MP 17, presenting effect sizes as standardized mean differences (SMD).

Inclusion Criteria

Studies included in the analysis were those that provided specific data on outcome indicators such as AST, ALT, TC, TG, and BMI. Excluded studies included animal experiments, abstracts, case reports, reviews, systematic evaluations, and duplicate publications. Additionally, studies with unclear exercise type, duration, or frequency were excluded, as well as those focusing only on lifestyle changes without specific exercise regimens.

Results

The search identified 10,448 articles, from which 28 studies met the eligibility criteria. These studies were grouped into four categories based on the type of exercise intervention:

  • Aerobic exercise (23 studies)
  • Resistance exercise (6 studies)
  • HIIT (5 studies)
  • Mind-body exercises (3 studies)

The network meta-analysis showed that mind-body exercise was superior in improving triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) levels compared to other exercise modalities.

Conclusion

The study highlights the need for more detailed comparative studies on various exercise forms in the management of NAFLD. It underscores the potential benefits of mind-body exercises in improving liver function and metabolic profiles in patients with NAFLD.

Supplementary Material

The supplementary material for this article is available online and includes detailed information on the risk of bias assessment, data extraction process, and statistical analysis.

This systematic review and network meta-analysis provide valuable insights into the comparative efficacy of different exercise modalities in managing NAFLD, emphasizing the importance of further research in this area to optimize treatment strategies.

FAQ

What is NAFLD?

NAFLD stands for Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and is a condition where excess fat builds up in the liver without alcohol being a contributing factor.

What are the types of exercises compared in the study?

The study compares aerobic exercise, resistance exercise, high-intensity interval training (HIIT), and mind-body exercises.

Which exercise modality was found to be the most effective?

The study found that mind-body exercises were superior in improving various metabolic and liver function indicators compared to other types of exercises.

Why is this study significant?

This study is significant as it provides a comparative analysis of different exercise modalities, helping healthcare providers better tailor exercise recommendations for managing NAFLD.

Are the findings applicable to all patients with NAFLD?

While the findings provide useful insights, individual variations exist, and exercise regimens should be customized based on specific patient conditions and needs.

Where can I find the supplementary material?

The supplementary material is available online alongside the published article in Frontiers in Physiology.

Conclusion

This comprehensive systematic review and network meta-analysis offer valuable insights into the efficacy of various exercise modalities in improving metabolic profiles and liver functions in patients with NAFLD. The results emphasize the potential benefits of mind-body exercises and highlight the need for further detailed studies to tailor optimal exercise guidelines.

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